Middlesbrough will be taking on Millwall in a crucial encounter which can decide the playoffs. The Tony Pulis’ side have pretty much one foot in the playoffs after their crucial win against Derby County where they went on to win 2-1. Striker Patrick Bamford is expected to return to the lineup after he sat off the last game as a precaution to the head injury, which he picked up while playing against Bristol City.
It could be slightly harsh on Britt Assombalonga as he scored the winner at the Pride Park in the previous encounter. Tony Pulis doesn’t have much of an injury concern as all his players are pretty much fit for this encounter. It’s a must-win game for Millwall if they want to have a chance of playing in the playoffs. They are currently in the seventh spot, two points behind sixth-placed Derby County.
On the other hand, Middlesbrough can guarantee their playoff qualification with a positive result this weekend. The Teessiders secured back to back wins in their last two encounters which have propelled them to the 5th spot. Even a draw won’t be a bad result for them but they will be looking to carry on the momentum which they have gained by winning two crucial back to back encounters.
Boro are going to play at home and they have won 6 of their last 7 encounters at home. Their only loss came against the high flying Wolverhampton Wanderers. However, Millwall are also in some good run of form, especially away from home as they are unbeaten in their last 9 away games, which includes seven wins.
It will be one of the matches of the weekend and this is how they will most likely line up against Millwall.
Predicted Formation (4-3-3)
Defence:
The tried and tested Darren Randolph will start in goal at the Riverside stadium. He is expected to be shielded by the centre-back pairing of Daniel Ayala and Ben Gibson. Ryan Shotton will play in in the right back position and George Friend will take up his usual left-back role to complete the back four.
Midfield:
Adam Clayton will start in the middle of the park and will be partnered by Muhamed Besic. Their core roles will be to protect the defence line and keep things ticking in midfield. Jonny Howson will be the other midfielder and he will help his team on the creative front.
Attack:
Stewart Downing and Adama Traore will play on the wings. Britt Assombalonga has done well when called upon but Patrick Bamford will be expected to start up front.
