Boro chief needs Wheater replacement

Seb Hines is favourite to partner Matthew Bates in central defence following Wheater's departure for Bolton as Mowbray considers his options during the remaining days of the transfer window.

Joe Bennett is expected to shake off a slight groin problem, but injuries continue to disrupt the manager's plans with full-back Justin Hoyte having joined the casualty list with a hamstring injury which could keep him out for another three weeks.

Midfielder Kevin Thomson too is back on the sidelines after scans revealed a hairline fracture in the leg he broke in August last year.

He joins Stephen McManus and Luke Williams (both ankle ligaments) and Mickael Tavares (fractured toe) in the treatment room.

However, there is better news of long-term absentees Willo Flood (knee) and Rhys Williams (pelvis) who could both return to training next month.

Source: PA

Source: PA