Middlesbrough are currently flying high in the Championship and have made it to the second spot in the league table. They are looking to keep their good run going this season and would look to bag all three points when they face Preston North End in their next match at Deepdale Stadium.
Tony Pulis’ team are in excellent shape at this moment and are looking for direct promotion this season after their stellar performance in the last term as well. They have won 9 of their 18 matches played this season and are trailing the league leaders Norwich City by just two points.
Team News
There are no major injuries for Tony Pulis to be concerned with as the Boro goes into this crucial encounter. Only Ryan Shotton, who picked up a knee injury but is already back in training, would be assessed before the match. The Welshman has a full squad to choose from, which comes as a big boost for him as well as his side.
Goalkeeper
Darren Randolph will start in the goal for Middlesbrough.
Defence
Dael Fry will start in the right back position while skipper George Friend would put in his shift from the left-hand side. The duo of Danny Batth and Aden Flint will begin in the heart of the defence once again for Middlesbrough after their good performance in the last two matches in the Championship.
Midfield
Muhamed Besic and Adam Clayton starts in central midfield and will have the onus of making interceptions and keeping the ball in their possession. Jonathan Howson will play up the field while Martin Braithwaite and Stewart Downing would put in their shifts as wide attackers from the left and the right-hand sides respectively.
Attack
Jordan Hugill will lead the line for Middlesbrough. The Englishman’s form has not been worth mentioning this season so far, and it is imperative for him to score against Preston to increase his tally, which would do his confidence a world of good for the rest of the season.
Predicted Formation: 4-2-3-1
