Score draw at Boro?

The Pools Panel have forecast that Charlton's clash with Middlesbrough tomorrow will end in a score draw, perhaps not such a difficult forecast to make given that all but one of the matches between the two teams in the Premiership at The Riverside have ended in draws, although often a dreary 0-0.

Warwick University's Decision Technology Group, who forecast that Charlton were unlikely to win against Leicester, are more pessimistic giving a 62% chance of a home win as against 22% for a draw and 16% for an away win. The few hundred Charlton supporters making their way to the north-east would be over the moon if the Addicks came away with all three points.

Boro look likely to be without Stewart Downing (hamstring) and James Morrison (groin) after injuries during the Uefa cup win against Grazer AK. Mark Viduka and George Boateng will also not be available.

Kishishev may be back for the Addicks after he missed the FA Cup defeat because of a hamstring problem. His robust qualities in the defensive midfield position could be just what Charlton need. Jerome Thomas, whom Curbs is backing as a future England player, is like to replace Dennis Rommedahl who was unimpressive against the Foxes.

Blackfen Addick Paul May will be covering the game for this blog.