JUNINHO makes only his second home start in almost two months as Middlesbrough head for the 40-point comfort zone in today's Premiership clash with Sheffield Wednesday. But fellow Brazilian Branco is struggling with an injury - and the arrival of another Latin American import, Beto, is far from certain.

Bryan Rob son was apparently set to sign Botafogo based striker Beto, who played alongside Juninho in the recent Olympic qualifying tournament. But coach John Pickering said: "Beto has been mentioned in general conversation but not as an immediate target. I'm not saying he will not come, but I'd be surprised if he did."

Middlesbrough are unbeaten in their last three matches following their alarming slump which saw them collect only one point from 11 games and left them hovering above the relegation zone.

Wednesday have also had their worries, and David Pleat wants at least one more win before he can relax completely.