Bournemouth will face Middlesbrough in the very first game of this week and it will be a hugely important game for both teams, especially Middlesbrough for whom the result can well be called decisive. Boro are stuttering in the relegation zone as they have been submerged in the bottom three for a long time now. They are currently winless in their last 15 away games and will be trying to settle things quickly.
Middlesbrough have a very good defensive record and will be up against a free flowing Cherries side who so far have 45 goals under their name. so it would be a battle between Boro’s defence vs Cherries’ offence.
The Cherries are seven points adrift of the drop zone and a win would be enough to secure Premier League football for another season. On the other side, Middlesbrough are having a dry run. Goals have started to come as they have scored three goals in as many matches but they need to make sure they don’t concede any goals.
Bournemouth would be oozing with confidence after their spirited display against Arsenal and would be determined to avenge their 2-0 defeat earlier in this season. The Cherries are unbeaten at home against the Teesiders in any tier and would be determined to keep the record intact.
Team News And Predicted Lineups
Bournemouth
It has been confirmed that Jack Wilshere will miss the rest of the season after suffering a hairline leg fracture. Lewis Cook who replaced Wilshere in the last match might make a start. Dan Gosling could undergo a late fitness test to determine his level of fitness.
Apart from this, Eddie Howe has no fresh injury concerns.
Boruc; Daniels, Cook, Francis, Smith; Arter, Cook; Pugh, Stanislas, King, Afobe
Middlesbrough
Brad Guzan will keep his place as Victor Valdes continues his rehabilitation from a rib injury. Adama Traore could be given a chance after his impressive display against the Gunners in the last match.
Guzan; Gibson, Ayala, Fabio, Barragan; Clayton, Leadbitter, Downing, Ramirez, Traore; Negredo
Key Players
Bournemouth
Joshua king has been a constant menace for the opposition defenders this season. Boro defence is a tough nut to crack but if he plays to his potential, King could breach their stringent defence. He has so far added 13 goals to his tally and would be very hopeful to extend it.
Middlesbrough
After 25 games Adama Traore is still searching his first League goal. Poor decision making has cost him several chances but the Cherries cannot take him very lightly.
