MIKELE Leigertwood’s return from a three-match ban couldn’t have come at a better time for QPR as they line up for the trip to Middlesbrough on Saturday.

The defensive midfielder looks set to replace Matthew Connolly, who is struggling with an ankle injury picked up in the final five minutes of the 2-1 win over Doncaster last Saturday.

Tamas Priskin also returned to training this week from a groin problem, and gives boss Mick Harford the headache of either sticking with the front two pairing of Antonio German and Jay Simpson who both scored against Donny – or drafting in the on-loan Hungarian.

Rangers first win in 10 attempts against Rovers was a welcome respite for the underfire Harford – and a result at the Riverside Stadium will not only avenge the 5-1 home defeat to Boro in December, but further strengthen the Rs manager's grip on the job.

Marcus Bent is sidelined with a hamstring problem, but apart from long-term absentees Gavin Mahon and Martin Rowland, Harford has a full squad available.

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To read Boro's perspective of the big game check out our sister website www.gazettelive.co.uk.