Overview
- Middlesbrough have won three in a row under new head coach Kim Hellberg and host in-form QPR at the Riverside on Saturday.
- David Strelec and Sontje Hansen returned to training after illness and are in contention, while centre-back Dael Fry will miss out as he continues calf recovery.
- QPR arrive with four wins in their last five matches, led by top scorer Rumarn Burrell, who has nine goals this season including six in his past eight.
- Hellberg explains his early impact through player engagement with detailed tactical work, an adaptable shape featuring two strikers, and an emphasis on confidence.
- Defensive options have improved with recent cameos for George Edmundson and Luke Ayling, as Matt Targett’s cover at centre-back and Alex Bangura’s return at left-back enhance competition; local reporting offers a predicted XI for the QPR match.