PATRICK BAMFORD returns to Middlesbrough's starting line-up for this evening's Championship home game with Hull City.

Bamford replaces Jonny Howson in the only change to the team that lined up in last weekend's 1-0 defeat to Cardiff City.

The former Chelsea trainee is expected to line up in a wide midfield position, with Stewart Downing starting in the 'number ten' role.

Mo Besic retains his place in the starting line-up, and will play alongside Grant Leadbitter at the base of midfield.

The back four remains unchanged, with Daniel Ayala partnering Ben Gibson at centre-half.

Boro start this evening's game five points adrift of Bristol City, who currently occupy the last of the play-off places.

MIDDLESBROUGH (4-2-3-1): Randolph; Shotton, Ayala, Gibson, Friend; Leadbitter, Besic; Traore, Downing, Bamford; Gestede.

Subs: Konstantopoulos (gk), Cranie, Fry, Howson, Harrison, Clayton, Assombalonga.

HULL (4-2-3-1): McGregor; Tomori, Aina, Dawson, Hector; MacDonald, Irvine; Toral, Evandro, Keane; Campbell.

Subs: Marshall (gk), Clark, Stewart, Grosicki, Meyler, Dicko, Diomande.