Matty Taylor to start up front – Predicted 4-4-2 Bristol City line-up to face Middlesbrough

Predicted Bristol City Line-up To Face Middlesbrough In The EFL Championship

8th placed Bristol City face a Middlesbrough side this weekend who are only one point and one place above the Robins. After cruising to a 3-1 victory against a vastly improved Birmingham side, Bristol City take on Boro, with the race for the final two promotion places still very much in the balance.

City have performed way above expectations all season and manager Lee Johnson will be hoping to push his players over the line to cap off a brilliant season. Middlesbrough will be a tough challenge and with a wage bill much higher than their own, they would be expected to fall to the bigger and more powerful team.

However, the underdog spirit is something that has driven the team across the line in games throughout the season and they will hope they can use that again.

Probable Bristol City XI

Manager: Lee Johnson

Formation: 4-4-2

GK – Frank Fielding

After failing to make the grade at several clubs, Frank Fielding has found a home at Bristol City. He has been very impressive this season and will hope to keep out the impressive Boro attack.

LB – Lloyd Kelly

The young left-back has only made 4 starts for City this season but his energy down the left-hand side is very much a bonus for Lee Johnson.

CB – Nathan Baker

The 26-year-old former Aston Villa centre-back has been involved in most of the good things that have happened to Bristol City this year and should start here.

CB – Aden Flint

The 28-year-old leader of the Bristol City team has been a rock for his side and is as effective with the ball as without it. He had an 83% pass completion rate against Birmingham.

RB – Joe Bryan

Joe Bryan has proved to be a threat down the right-hand side, scoring 5 goals in all competitions this season.

LM – Bobby Reid

It is hard to believe that Bobby Reid only managed 3 goals last season, with this season’s tally standing at an impressive 20 in all competitions.

CM – Korey Smith

Korey Smith is a strong defensive presence in central midfield for Bristol City. Will need to be on his toes against the nippy Boro attackers.

CM – Marlon Pack

Marlon Pack is a confident player who gets up to support the attacks when needed.

RM – Josh Brownhill

With 5 goals and 5 assists, Josh Brownhill has been a solid performer for Bristol City this season. Would want to add to his goal tally before the end of the season.

ST – Matty Taylor

After grabbing a goal from the bench against Birmingham, this game will be a chance for Matty Taylor to start up top for the Robins.

ST – Famara Diedhiou

The 25-year-old striker got an assist last time out and has 12 goals in all competitions. Will desperately want more.