Friend doubtful for visit of Chelsea

George Friend could join Daniel Ayala on the Middlesbrough injury list ahead of Sunday's match against Chelsea at the Riverside Stadium. 

Aitor Karanka confirmed on Friday that Ayala has been ruled out and Friend faces a late fitness test.

"We have a few doubts in terms of fitness," Karanka told mfc.co.uk. "The players who were away have returned, but they have had long journeys.

"We also have Dani Ayala out, and we have a doubt with George Friend. [He] had a knock on his knee so we will need to check." 

See: Gibson: Never write us off