Gareth Southgate insists Middlesbrough head into the home clash with Liverpool in good heart after three league wins from their last six games.The suspensions of Lee Cattermole and Julio Arca have left a hole in midfield, but the possible return of George Boateng and the availability after his own ban of Gary O'Neil gives Southgate options.

Southgate said: "There was a lot of despondency after the home game with Everton and we have had three wins in six games - which would have been a decent record if we'd had a few draws as well.

"Bristol City was a big game for us and we gave a disciplined and professional performance down there and we didn't panic when we went behind.

"There is always one element of our team which ends up being short and this week it's the midfield. But it means opportunities for people and they have got to take those opportunities and grab them.

"Liverpool are a class side and it is always a big occasion when they come and play you. Our home form hasn't been as good as it could have been so we've got to make this place an intimidating place to come to again."

More Football News from TEAMtalk