MIDDLESBROUGH have assured fans they will do everything they can to make sure this Friday’s televised game with Leeds United beats the Beast from the East.

The Championship fixture will be in danger if the Baltic blast continues to hit the region and that would make it difficult for fans to travel to the Riverside Stadium.

Weather forecasts predict further heavy snow showers so Middlesbrough have moved to keep fans updated with what is going on.

And they have released pictures of inside and outside the Riverside, where deep snow has covered everywhere, although the club would be confident of clearing the pitch.

A club statement read: “The club are currently working hard to ensure Friday’s game against Leeds United goes ahead as planned.

“The club cannot legislate for forthcoming weather and more snow and freezing temperatures are forecast.”

The Northern Echo:

Schools across Teesside have been closed and road conditions are dangerous after a couple of days of freezing conditions and temperatures. It is expected to continue until Saturday.

Middlesbrough would be confident of clearing the pitch and it does have undersoil heating, while they would also be hopeful of keeping the car parks and paths gritted – although the approach roads could be more of a problem.

The Northern Echo:

A decision is unlikely to be made early, with Leeds not too far away, but police, club and council staff will be watching the weather closely and will stay in regular contact.

The North-East’s other clubs are also waiting for updates, although only Middlesbrough are due to play in the area on Friday.

Newcastle head to Liverpool on Saturday evening and that is after Sunderland have faced Millwall at The Den. The situation will be monitored later in the week. 

Hartlepool are at Aldershot and Darlington are due to travel to Tamworth. There has been a light dusting of snow at Aldershot with more on the way.

Spennymoor, whose FA Trophy replay with Bromley was postponed on Tuesday, are due to face Leamington at home.

It would be a surprise if local league fixtures and Northern League fixtures get the go-ahead given the circumstances.