Boro boss Steve McClaren is once again sweating on the fitness of Carlos Marinelli ahead of his side’s massive clash with champions Manchester United on Saturday.

Marinelli was missing last week as Boro went down 2-0 to Liverpool. Middlesbrough were noticeably missing Marinelli’s craft, and are desperate for him to be fit for Saturday. However, the Argentine is rated only 50/50 to make the game.

Meanwhile, keeper Mark Crossley has fully recovered from the head injury he suffered at Anfield last week. The former Forest man can now look forward to a full month between the sticks as Mark Schwarzer recovers from his hernia operation.

Manchester United boss Alex Ferguson is expected to keep faith with the same team that hammered Derby 5-0 in midweek. However, David Beckham may return.