Boro Under-21s make their long-awaited return to league action tonight as they travel to Bolton Wanderers (kick-off 7pm).
Paul Jenkins’ side haven’t kicked a ball in the Barclays Under-21 Premier League Second Division since October 31 when they were sunk by a last-gasp goal at Arsenal.
But after making progress in the Final Third Development League Cup and Under-21 Premier League Cup in recent weeks, Boro’s young guns head to the County Ground in good spirits.
A win could take Boro joint top of the division, and after playing all of the division’s top seven sides already, optimism is high that the team can go on another unbeaten run over the festive period.
Jenkins will be forced into a handful of changes once more after striker Bradley Fewster secured a season-long loan move to Preston North End last week.
The England Under-19s hotshot was an unused substitute for the Lilywhites at Yeovil Town on Saturday – but will be keen to develop and get some valuable first-team experience during his stay at Deepdale.
Fewster’s absence will be even tougher for Jenkins given that Under-21 regulars Bradley Halliday, Andy Halliday, Bryn Morris, Luke Williams and Emmanuel Ledesma are also out on loan.
Charlie Wyke, back at Rockliffe Park following a three-month spell at Hartlepool United, had a scan last week after picking up a knock while at Pools and looks set to miss out tonight.
That means Jenkins could hand the striking responsibility to Ryan Brobbel, Callum Cooke or the in-form Jordan Jones.
Meanwhile Boro’s Academy stars soared to the top of the Barclays Under-18 Premier League after a 2-1 win at Everton on Saturday.
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