QPR v Middlesbrough: five key battles

QPR host promotion-chasing Middlesbrough on Friday night, having won four of their last five home matches. Here are five potential battles we think could be important at Loftus Road.

Nedum Onouha v Stewart Downing
Former England winger Downing was benched for Middlesbrough’s win over Hull but is expected to return to the side, with Cristian Stuani likely to be rested after international duty with Uruguay. Onuoha will need to cut off the supply of crosses Downing supplies from the left, while James Perch deals with Albert Adomah on the other side.

Gabriele Angella v Jordan Rhodes
Rhodes was recruited from Blackburn in January to spearhead Boro’s promotion push but has scored just once in 10 appearances. Angella had an excellent game against Preston and will want a repeat performance to frustrate former Brentford loanee Rhodes.

Sebastian Polter or Conor Washington v Daniel Ayala
Polter has done well as a lone striker in recent matches but Washington reminded boss Jimmy Floyd Hasselbaink of his talents with a goal for Northern Ireland. Ayala has been out for almost two months with an ankle injury, but came through a behind-closed-doors friendly with Sunderland and is being tipped to start at Loftus Road.

Karl Henry v Gaston Ramirez
Henry’s physical presence stood out at Preston and he needs another good display to check the runs from deep of Ramirez. The on-loan Southampton midfielder has already scored three times in his first nine appearances since joining in January.

Matt Phillips v George Friend
Phillips missed the trip to Deepdale but could come back in, particularly if Junior Hoilett hasn’t recovered from a knock picked up on international duty with Canada. Friend has been one of the best left-backs in the Championship this season, contributing to the best defensive record in the division.