Predicted Bournemouth Line-up To Face Middlesbrough In The Carabao Cup
Bournemouth will look to achieve progress to the quarter-finals of the Carabao Cup, when they face second division side Middlesbrough in the Round of 16 stage, on Tuesday night, at the Vitality Stadium.
Eddie Howe’s side made to this stage of the competition, after having beaten fellow Premier League outfit Brighton & Hove Albion 1-0 in the third round. The manager will be keen on achieving further progress, with a win over the Teessiders on Tuesday. The Cherries come into the game on the back of a 2-1 win over Stoke City in the Premier League and will look to carry on the positivity.
Team News
Striker Joshua King is a doubt for the game due to illness and will undergo a late fitness test before the game whereas his partner Jermain Defoe has been ruled out due to a hamstring problem. Brad Smith (hip), Tyrone Mings (back) and Adam Federici (knee) are also unavailable.
Here’s how Bournemouth could line up against Garry Monk’s side at home:
Manager: Eddie Howe
Formation: 4-4-1-1
Artur Boruc (GK)
The 37-year old Polish custodian has been the anointed goalkeeper for the cup competitions for the Cherries this term. Should begin the match in goal, with Asmir Begovic making way.
Adam Smith (RB)
The 26-year old right-back has played in all the games for Bournemouth this season. Could be set to make his 12th appearance on Tuesday.
Simon Francis (CB)
In the heart of the defence, we should see captain Simon Francis continue for the Cherries. Will be tasked with dealing the threat of Britt Assombalonga.
Steve Cook (CB)
The 26-year old did not start the PL game against Stoke, but should come into the line-up to partner Francis, in place of Nathan Ake.
Charlie Daniels (LB)
With Brad Smith out injured, Howe will have no option to rotate and should continue with Charlie Daniels at left-back, against Boro.
Ryan Fraser (RM)
The 23-year old Scotsman wasn’t involved in the last two league outings for Bournemouth due to injury issues, but made it to the bench against Stoke. Has started both the cup games and should make his third appearance in the competition.
Dan Gosling (CM)
Another player who has started both the cup games for the club this term, 27-year old Dan Gosling should be in line for an appearance from the get-go.
Harry Arter (CM)
The midfield fulcrum hasn’t been at his best, blighted by injury problems. Made a late substitute appearance over the weekend and a start here could be a good way to get him going again.
Marc Pugh (LM)
Did not start against the Potters, but having scored one and assisted one in two Carabao cup games this term, should get a look in against Middlesbrough.
Lys Mousset (SS)
With King still a fitness doubt, the 21-year old Lys Mousset should continue in the attack for the Cherries in this cup game.
Benik Afobe (ST)
With Defoe out and Callum Wilson not entirely match fit, the 24-year old Benik Afobe should be Howe’s preferred striking option on Tuesday.