MIDDLESBROUGH have installed Paddy McNair back into the starting line-up after his recent bout of illness for this afternoon’s play-off decider against Preston North End.

The Northern Irishman replaces Lee Peltier from last week’s 3-1 win over Stoke City. It’s the only change to Chris Wilder’s side for this afternoon's game at Deepdale.

Duncan Watmore and Andraz Sporar continue to partner each other up front while Marcus Tavernier continues his stint at left wing-back with Riley McGree starting in midfield.

Martin Payero drops out of the matchday squad completely as Peltier takes a place on the bench.

Boro must win this afternoon’s game against the Lilywhites to have any chance of reaching the Championship play-offs.

BORO XI: Daniels; Dijksteel, Fry, McNair; Jones, Crooks, Howson, McGree, Tavernier; Sporar, Watmore

Subs: Lumley, Peltier, Bamba, Connolly, Bola, Coburn, Balogun

PRESTON XI: Iversen, Van Den Berg, Whiteman, Lindsay, Browne, Johnson, McCann, Riis, Archer, Diaby, Potts

Subs: Ripley, Cunningham, Evans, Ledson, Huntington, Maguire, O'Neill