Young Lions trio Matthew Bates, David Wheater and James Morrison (below) could feature in Middlesbrough’s clash with Chelsea tonight as manager Steve McClaren wrestles with an injury crisis.

With a number of players ruled-out and others rated doubtful, McClaren has drafted in several members of Boro’s FA Youth Cup winning squad from last season.

"We may have to throw in the likes of Matthew Bates, Danny Graham, David Wheater and James Morrison if we have to," McClaren told the Middlesbrough website. "We’re in the trenches at the moment."

****************

England Under-20 defender Gary Cahill was praised by manager Steve Cotterill after scoring the winner for Burnley against Stoke yesterday.

Cahill, on loan at Burnley from Aston Villa, impressed Cotterill after shrugging off illness to turn in an impressive display.

Cotterill said: "Gary has been poorly for a couple of days and he put in an awesome performance." (Daily Mirror)

****************

England Under-21 centre-back Calum Davenport has joined Southampton on loan from Tottenham until the end of the season.

The 22-year-old signed for Tottenham from Coventry in the summer and was loaned out to West Ham earlier this season.

"I am really looking forward to it," Davenport told the Southampton website. "This will be a huge challenge for me and the chance to have a run of games in the Premiership.

Tottenham's sporting director Frank Arnesen said: "I think it is very good for Calum and Tottenham in that we can see him play at the highest level. He will hopefully get a lot of games - that is what it is all about."

****************

England Under-19 defender Tom Huddlestone played a starring role for Derby in their 1-0 win at Reading yesterday.

Derby manager George Burley was delighted with Huddlestone’s performance as the Rams strengthened their play-off claims.

"Idiakez and Huddlestone in the middle were outstanding," said Burley.

"It’s a shame we have had to play Tom in central defence this season due to Mo Konjic’s injury but he is a top class player who shines in either position." (Derby County website)