Ryan Shotton missing for Boro

Middlesbrough defender Ryan Shotton is out of Saturday’s Sky Bet Championship clash with Derby with a knee injury which is likely to sideline him for several weeks.

The full-back missed the 0-0 midweek draw with Rotherham because of the problem, which he suffered during last Friday night’s 2-1 win at Sheffield Wednesday.

Paddy McNair took his place against the Millers and is likely to get the nod again as Boro attempt to climb back to the top of the table.

Manager Tony Pulis otherwise has no fresh injury problems with striker Martin Braithwaite starting on Tuesday evening after being rested against the Owls following his return from international duty with Denmark.

Derby boss Frank Lampard is expected to choose from an unchanged squad after his side’s 4-1 win at West Brom in midweek.

Lampard, who has no new injury or suspension worries, confirmed midfielder Craig Bryson is unlikely to be ready in time after missing out on Wednesday night due to a calf injury.

Tom Lawrence returned to the starting XI in Bryson’s absence against West Brom and should continue.

George Evans (knee) and fellow midfielder Joe Ledley (hip) both remain sidelined.