Steve Agnew has urged his players to produce a reaction and create a cauldron of noise when Middlesbrough face Sunderland on Wednesday evening (KO 7.45pm).
A weekend with no game on Wearside gave Boro the chance to extend the gap between themselves and the Black Cats, but Agnew’s side slipped up and fell to a devastating 4-0 defeat against AFC Bournemouth.
Just three points separate the sides heading into the Riverside Stadium match-up, with the sides combining for just win – Sunderland’s victory over Crystal Palace – in 2017.
And speaking ahead of the game, Boro’s caretaker boss admitted they must win at all costs.
“Most importantly, we need the three points,” said Agnew.
“Secondly, we have to put on a show for the supporters. And thirdly, there has to be a reaction after the disappointment of Saturday.”
He continued: “We have to give the supporters something to shout about because they’ve had a long hard season.
“It’s a north east derby and the passion and the energy that will come from 30,000 Teessiders is everything the players need.
“Now we have to approach it with intent and fighting spirit.”
Former Black Cat Grant Leadbitter is likely to feature after returning to training following a hamstring problem, but former Barcelona stopper Victor Valdes will miss out due to a rib injury.
And Gaston Ramirez is unavailable due to suspension following a red card on Saturday.
“Victor Valdes has a rib injury so will miss out, but Grant Leadbitter and Marten de Roon have trained this morning.
“Everyone else is fit.”