Middlesbrough v Tottenham potential lineup: McNair to replace Ayala in defence

Middlesbrough face a daunting clash against Tottenham in the FA Cup on Sunday.

Manager Jonathan Woodgate has been able to mastermind a run of four victories despite the growing injury list at the club.

Victory at Preston North End last time out saw stand-in skipper Daniel Ayala forced off in the first half with an injury. Ayala joins, Britt Assombalonga, George Friend and Darren Randolph on the treatment table.

Aynsley Pears will be expected to man the sticks, the stopper has been impressive, keeping seven clean sheets in the last 12 matches.

Woodgate favours a back three and would be looking to Dael Fry to lead the backline as the only fit center-back in the team. He will likely be supported by Paddy McNair and Jonny Howson.

Djed Spence has been impressive in the right wingback role with talks of a new contract for the young winger. Supporting him on the opposite flank would be Hayden Coulson, who recently signed a new deal with the club.

Adam Clayton will have a key role to play in the game as the defensive midfielder and George Saville may feature alongside Clayton to provide incisive passing with Marcus Tavernier as the advanced midfielder.

The attack is likely to be led by Ashley Fletcher alongside Rudy Gestede to provide an aerial threat for Boro.

The match promises to be one for Woodgate to mastermind a cup upset against Premier League opposition.