GASTON RAMIREZ returns to Middlesbrough's starting line-up for this afternoon's Premier League home game with Chelsea.

The Uruguayan was suspended for the 1-1 draw at Manchester City that preceded the international break, but returns to Boro's starting line-up ahead of Stewart Downing.

Aitor Karanka has made two changes to the side that drew at the Etihad, with the other alteration being enforced.

George Friend injured his knee in training last week, and is replaced by Fabio da Silva, who will be making his first league appearance for Boro.

Chelsea boss Antonio Conte sticks with the 3-4-3 formation that has proved so effective in recent weeks, with Pedro preferred to Willian and Oscar on the right-hand side of the attack.

MIDDLESBROUGH (4-3-3): Valdes; Barragan, Chambers, Gibson, Fabio; de Roon, Clayton, Forshaw; Traore, Negredo, Ramirez.

Subs: Guzan (gk), Espinosa, Nsue, Leadbitter, Downing, Fischer, Rhodes.

CHELSEA (3-4-3): Courtois; Azpilicueta, Luiz, Cahill; Moses, Kante, Matic, Alonso; Pedro, Costa, Hazard.

Subs: Begovic (gk), Ivanovic, Terry, Chalobah, Fabregas, Oscar, Batshuayi.