LEEDS United will be hoping to make their way back into play-off contention by winning their derby match away to Middlesbrough tonight.

United manager Paul Heckingbottom is aware of the challenge that this game poses, but he is relishing it nonetheless.

Hosts Boro are doing all they can to try to ensure the game goes ahead despite the Arctic conditions in the North-East and the Leeds boss is desperate to play after earning his first win since taking charge, which came against Brentford.

He said: “These next two games against Middlesbrough away and Wolves at home are really big games for us, we want them on and we want to be playing these sides.

“Middlesbrough have been difficult to play against recently, they have lots more threats and a set-piece element has been added to the team and their game.

“We know it is going to be tough because of the players they have, and Tony Pulis has the team really well organised now.”

The manager also gave updates on three of his star performers. Pablo Hernandez, Kemar Roofe and Adam Forshaw all missed last Saturday’s victory, but will be hoping to return tonight.

“It will be touch and go for both Pablo and Kemar, but we have no reason to risk them.

“Between now and the end of the season, barring the international week, we have really congested fixtures.

“We need everyone fit and available and 100 per cent over this period, so if there is any doubt we won’t risk them, but if they are fine and available, we will use them.

“Adam has had a little baby boy and everyone is doing well, he has been in training from Monday with the rest of the players and he is available.”

Heckingbottom also claimed that his team have coped well with the challenges that the adverse weather has posed, saying: "We haven’t managed to get on the grass in the last two days. We have a good indoor facility though and we have used that, so we haven’t been affected by it too much."

Last week's win against Brentford took the Whites up to 11th and victory here could put them in ninth. If results go their way, they could end the weekend just three points outside of the play-off places.