Wolves v Middlesbrough: Boro anticipate losing in-form Clayton from their engine room at Wolves

The ex-Huddersfield Town and Leeds United schemer, in fine form after his seven-figure move from Town, is set to miss out due to a head injury, with Dean Whitehead expected to start in the engine room alongside Grant Leadbitter.

Lee Tomlin, substituted at half-time of Boro’s weekend win at Brighton with a leg injury, and fellow scorer Albert Adomah, who suffered cramp in the latter stages at the Amex Stadium, are part of the squad.

Molineux is a venue which holds mixed memories for Boro fans, with the club famously losing an FA Cup quarter-final replay there in 1981 which effectively led to the breakup of John Neal’s side and relegation the following season.

But the ground also witnessed a promotion party in May 1992 when Boro won 2-1 to clinch a ticket to the Premeir League.

Boro head to the Midlands in third spot and, if the early stages of the season are anything to go by, are well placed to be in the promotion shake-up in the Spring.

Head coach Aitor Karanka said: “Wolves play in a similar way to us. They are a typical Championship team with a lot of intensity and very good players. It will be tough for us. “

Last six games: Wolves DWDLDD, Middlesbrough WDDDWW.

Referee: C Berry (Surrey).

Last time: Wolves 3 Middlesbrough 2; March 30, 2013; Championship.