Huddersfield Town vs Middlesbrough preview - Hudson set for Huddersfield bow

Posted Friday, September 12, 2014 by PA

Huddersfield's latest signing Mark Hudson is expected to make his debut for the club in new boss Chris Powell's first game in charge against Middlesbrough.

Former Cardiff defender Hudson recently signed a two-year deal, while ex-Charlton manager Powell was named as Mark Robins' successor last week.

Skipper Lee Peltier is hoping to return after missing the last two games due to a groin injury, but a similar problem is still troubling fellow defender Tommy Smith.

Midfielder Jonathan Hogg is expected to return following a calf problem as Town chase their first home win of the season.

Aitor Karanka could turn to some of his new signings as he attempts to get Middlesbrough's season back on track.

Goalkeeper Jamal Blackman, midfielder Ryan Fredericks and forwards Jelle Vossen, Patrick Bamford and Yanic Wildschut all joined the club during the final few days of the summer transfer window, either side of the 1-0 Sky Bet Championship home defeat by Reading.

Defenders Jonathan Woodgate and Ben Gibson are expected to be fit after overcoming hamstring injuries, while defender Emilio Nsue has had the international break to recover from a back problem.

Karanka otherwise has only long-term absentees Rhys Williams (Achilles) and Muzzy Carayol (cruciate ligament) unavailable, with both facing several more weeks on the sidelines.