Middlesbrough managed a comfortable 2-0 victory over Ipswich Town at Portman Road Stadium this past midweek and will lock horns with Nottingham Forest at the Riverside Stadium later today in their next Championship fixture.
Under the tutelage of Tony Pulis, the Smoggies have the looks of a team that can make a serious challenge for promotion after a strong start to the season. They are placed second in the league table.
Middlesbrough Team News
Adam Clayton is back in the contention to start in the home game after missing out against Ipswich due to suspension. Britt Assombalonga is also available for selection after shaking off a knock which saw him being restricted to bench duty in Boro’s last league clash.
Middlesbrough Predicted Line-up (4-3-3)
Defence
Darren Randolph has been the undisputed first-choice shot-stopper for the Riversiders so far this season and it’d be surprising if he doesn’t keep his place. We expect Pulis to persist with a four-man defence, comprising of Ryan Shotton, Daniel Ayala, Aden Flint and George Friend.
In his seven league appearances, Flint has averaged 1.3 tackles and 7.3 clearances per game.
Midfield
George Saville has been one of the most productive and influential players for the side and he’ll start alongside Muhamed Besic and Jonathan Howson.
Besic hasn’t been used regularly so far in the Championship and he has managed just three starts so far. However, he made an impact against Ipswich Town and Pulis should persist with the Bosnian. Howson, on the other hand, will be a handy asset against a big side like Nottingham Forest.
With Clayton available for selection, Pulis has the option of shoring up the midfield should Boro come under pressure after taking the lead.
Attack
Jordan Hugill is likely to be replaced by Assombalonga in the upcoming game. We expect Stewart Downing to start on the right wing. The 34-year-old has to set an example in the final third and has notched up two goals and one assist in 11 appearances so far.
Martin Braithwaite should keep his place on the left wing. Braithwaite has scored three goals in 10 league appearances and his ability to dribble past opponents gives the team the x-factor in attack.
Stats via Whoscored