PRESTON NORTH END v MIDDLESBROUGH
TEAM NEWS
ComeOnBoro.com, 24 Oct 2009
Julio Arca will return from his one-match suspension that forced him out of the Derby game. He could be in line to start for Middlesbrough against Preston.
Seb Hines also didn't feature against the Rams and he is still doubtful with a knee injury.
Emanuel Pogatetz is getting stronger and could have a role to play after being an unused substitute for the last two matches.
Long-term absentees Chris Riggott and Andrew Taylor (both ankle), Caleb Folan (hamstring) and Matthew Bates (knee) remain sidelined.
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Sean St Ledger will face his former club when he returns to Deepdale as part of the Boro side.
The defender joined Middlesbrough on loan last month with view to a permanent deal and Irvine is looking forward to seeing how his strikers will fare against him.
He told the club website: "I'm looking forward to seeing Sean. I'm sure he's looking forward to coming back. He's a really good player and a very good professional.
"I hope he doesn't play well but I hope he goes on and has a successful season and career.
"It's always an advantage to know your opponent but at the same time Sean knows the lads he's playing against so we'll see who comes out on top."
