Eagles to assess duo

Crystal Palace will check on skipper Paddy McCarthy and midfielder Jonathan Williams ahead of the trip to Middlesbrough.

Defender McCarthy has yet to figure this season due to a groin problem and Welsh teenager Williams has been sidelined by a calf strain, but both are edging closer to fitness. Boss Dougie Freedman is wary about rushing the key duo back too soon, but he must be tempted after Palace's 4-1 defeat at Bristol City on Tuesday left them bottom of the pile without a point to their name. Strikers Glenn Murray and Jermaine Easter could be added to the squad after missing out again in midweek. Stuart O'Keefe and David Wright provide other options in midfield should Freedman make further changes.