Wheater may feature at Ashton Gate

The 23-year-old, who is out of contract at the end of the season, missed the 2-1 FA Cup third-round defeat at Burton as he held talks with Barclays Premier League Bolton.

However, he has returned to Teesside and is training with Boro.

Assistant boss Mark Venus told the club's official website: "David is still here. He trained with us on Monday and Tuesday.

"Right now, he is still a Middlesbrough player, he is contracted to the club and, if he is still here at the weekend, then there's every chance he will be playing.

"Of course, we would like the situation to be resolved - and it will be by January 31 - but I know David has always done his all for the football club and that's all we can ask."

Source: PA

Source: PA