By Middlesbrough Football Club

Boro's Under-23s will sample the Riverside for the first time this season on Friday when Newcastle United are the visitors for a 7pm kick-off.

Newcastle are chasing a play-off spot while Boro know a win will be enough to leapfrog Sunderland in the table and move clear of bottom club Reading.

Mark Tinkler could be boosted by some senior experience as his young side look to avenge the 4-1 reverse at St James's Park earlier in the season.

Boro will also be looking to build some confidence ahead of next week's PL Cup quarter-final trip to face Stoke City.

Boro beat Arsenal on penalties in the last round after a Stephen Walker goal, pictured, was cancelled out late on.

Season Card Holders can attend Friday's game free of charge with normal admission priced at £3, tickets on sale from the main Ticket Office and entry via turnstiles 14-17. 

Car parking is available at £2 per car, while seasonal car parking passes are valid.

The game will also be streamed live on our YouTube channel.