Middlesbrough vs Brentford - Boro wait on George Friend

Middlesbrough boss Tony Pulis could have George Friend back at his disposal for Saturday’s Sky Bet Championship clash with Brentford.

The full-back has returned to light training after a hamstring injury and will be assessed before Pulis names his side.

However, fellow defender Aden Flint, who has missed the last three games with a similar problem, is likely to sit out once again.

Boro’s medical staff continue to monitor defender Ryan Shotton (knee) and midfielder Lewis Wing (groin) as they attempt to nurse them through niggles.

Brentford will head for Teesside boosted by the return of several players in recent weeks.

Kamohelo Mokotjo started last weekend’s 3-0 derby win over QPR having sat out the midweek defeat at Sheffield Wednesday with calf and Achilles problems.

Fellow midfielder Emiliano Marcondes made his first appearance since December as a substitute in the same game following his recovery from an ankle injury.

In addition, midfielder Lewis MacLeod has returned to training after sitting out since the beginning of December with a hamstring injury, while defender Rico Henry (foot) is edging his way back towards fitness.