Predicted Middlesbrough line-up to face Preston in the Championship
Middlesbrough welcome Preston North End at the Riverside Stadium hoping to bounce back to winning ways on Wednesday.
Tony Pulis’ men endured a disappointing 2-1 defeat at home to Brentford last weekend. They are currently fifth in the table, three points adrift of fourth-placed West Brom.
Middlesbrough’s opponents, Preston are 10th in the table and come into this game off the back of a fantastic 1-0 victory over Blackburn Rovers.
Team News
Aden Flint is out with a hamstring injury and will be assessed ahead of the game. Other than that, Jonny Hawson will be suspended after picking up his fifth booking of the season against Brentford.
Probable Middlesbrough XI
Formation: 3-4-1-2
Manager: Tony Pulis
Darren Randolph (GK)
Randolph has been part of the best defence in the Championship this season. He is expected to start again between the sticks.
Dael Fry (LCB)
Fry has been solid at the back for Middlesbrough this campaign and should start on Wednesday.
Ryan Shotton (CB)
Shotton will be looking to make amends in this game after conceding an own goal. He is expected to start in the back three.
Daniel Ayala (RCB)
Ayala will need to step up and deliver a strong performance following the 2-1 defeat at home to Brentford. He has been a mainstay in Pulis’ side, having been a rock at the back.
Paddy McNair (RWB)
With Howson suspended, Pulis could use McNair at right wing-back against Preston.
George Friend (LWB)
Friend could be given the nod ahead of Saville at left wing-back against Preston. The 31-year-old has been an important part of the defence that has conceded just 26 goals so far.
Muhamed Besic (CM)
Besic has formed a formidable partnership with Mikel in the midfield. He is one of Pulis’ most crucial players and deserves to start against Preston.
John Obi Mikel (CM)
Mikel has brought calmness, stability and a lot of energy to Boro’s engine room. His experience and game management are vital as Middlesbrough chase promotion.
Lewis Wing (RM)
Pulis has given Wing a free role in his team which enables the 23-year-old to use his creativity and flair to hurt the opponents.
Ashley Fletcher (LM)
Scored last weekend but ended on the losing side. Fletcher will hope to get on the score sheet on Wednesday and hope to end on the winning side as well.
Britt Assombalonga (CF)
With his pace, power and physicality, Assombalonga will look to terrorise the Preston defence.
