Dale Stephens wants Albion to force the issue against the new Championship leaders.

The in-form midfielder admits the Seagulls let QPR set the tone in the first half of Tuesday’s 2-2 draw at Loftus Road.

Albion, now second, cannot afford that to happen again versus a Middlesbrough side above them on goal difference.

Stephens said: “We didn’t really play well in the first half but, when you find yourselves 2-0 up, you have got to hold on to it and see the game out.

“At half-time we felt we had to try and implement our game. We are a passing side and QPR made it difficult for us. They are a good pressing side.”

Albion face a team above them in the table for the first time since they won 3-2 at leaders Ipswich in late August.

Stephens said: “It doesn’t change anything for me. It was always going to be a tough game so whether we are top or they are top doesn’t matter.

“We still go into the game full of confidence.”

Middlesbrough rested three key players as they beat Burnley 1-0 but midfielder Grant Leadbitter and winger Albert Adomah are likely to return while striker Christian Stuani stands a good chance.

Stuani or Kike will start at the sharp end of a 4-2-3-1 formation in the absence of the suspended David Nugent.