TOM GLOVER will retain his place in Middlesbrough’s starting line-up to face West Brom this evening, with Michael Carrick claiming the Australian is currently ahead of Seny Dieng in the pecking order ‘on merit’.

Glover has started Boro’s last five matches since stepping in for the injured Sol Brynn during the Boxing Day draw with Sheffield Wednesday.

Dieng was sidelined through injury himself when Brynn suffered a shoulder dislocation that will keep him out for another couple of months, but the Senegal international returned to the squad at Portsmouth last weekend.

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However, having been on the bench at Fratton Park, Dieng is set to be a substitute again tonight with Glover retaining his place in the side.

“Seny’s fit, but it’s not always easy to pick the team,” said Carrick. “As I’ve said many times through the season, we’ve got a good squad and there are decisions we have to make. Tom has done well and he deserves to play tomorrow.”

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There has been mounting speculation over Dieng’s future heading into the final two weeks of the transfer window, with Boro set to sign Mark Travers on loan from Bournemouth.

The 30-year-old started the season as Boro’s number one, but has not played since returning for two matches against Burnley and Leeds United in early December.

“Seny is an important player for us, as is every player who is here,” said Carrick. “I try not to treat any player any differently.

“I genuinely try to treat everyone the same and give them a fair chance. That doesn’t change. Whoever is here, while they’re here, I’ll be exactly the same with everyone.”