Middlesbrough have been in much better form lately, which has seen them rise to 6th in the table. However, their last game vs Brentford saw them barely come away with a draw. With the season drawing to a close and a hard run of fixtures coming up, Boro need to step up their game if they want to stay in the top six.
They face possibly their hardest challenge on Friday when they face league leaders Wolves. A win for Boro could see them up to 5th. But a loss could see them move as low as 9th.
Here is how they might line up.
Formation: 4-3-3
Boro have been thriving using the 4-3-3 recently going undefeated in their last five. So, expect them to keep the same system vs Wolves.
GK: Darren Randolph
Randolph was one of Middlesbrough’s better players in their last game vs Brentford. He made several key saves and was a big part of why Boro were able to come away with a point. He will start vs Wolves and Boro will be hoping for an equally as good display.
RB: Ryan Shotton
Shotton has been excellent under Pulis since moving to right back. He will start there in a must-win game for Boro.
RCB: Dael Fry
Ayala was subbed off early vs Brentford. And given Middlesbrough’s shortage of centre-backs, Fry is the only real choice to replace him.
LCB: Ben Gibson
Gibson has been a constant in Boro’s side for the last two years, missing just one game through injury. He will start against Wolves.
LB: George Friend
Given that Fabio is still not match fit, George Friend is Boro’s only fit left back. So, he will start on Saturday.
CDM: Muhamed Besic
Besic has been superb since signing for Boro and they once again looked a weaker side when he was taken off at Brentford. He will start vs Wolves.
CM: Grant Leadbitter
Clayton has started Boro’s last three games, However, as this is a big game for the Teessider’s Pulis will likely recall Leadbitter to the starting eleven.
CM: Jonny Howson
Howson will keep his place in centre mid vs Wolves. But his displays of late have been nothing special. And he will have to step his game up vs Wolves.
RW: Adama Traore
Adama Traore continued to show what a top player he has become under Pulis as he scored Middlesbrough’s only goal of the game in their last match. Traore now has the chance to show what he can do it against a top quality opposition when Middlesbrough vs Wolves come face to face.
ST: Patrick Bamford
Bamford failed to score for the first time in several games vs Brentford. This is something both he and Boro will want to change in their next game vs top of the table.
LW: Stewart Downing
Downing managed another assist vs Brentford. However, the goal was largely Traore’s work. Downing will keep his spot on Friday though as Pulis has started him every game under him, despite also signing Harrison who could play there.
