Predicted Middlesbrough Lineup To Face Norwich City In The EFL Championship
The transition from Gary Monk to Tony Pulis is almost complete now that the January transfer window is closed. A number of players have gone out of the door, and another large number have come in and although it may take a while for the new side to settle down, this is the group that Pulis believes can achieve promotion. The game this weekend away at Norwich is a very tough one and if Pulis and his side are able to come away from Carrow Road with a result, they have no reason to be scared of anyone in this league.
Probable Middlesbrough XI
Formation: 4-3-3
GK – Darren Randolph
Former West Ham goalkeeper Darren Randolph has been a constant this season for Boro. A classy international keeper who provides excellent cover for his defence.
RB – Ryan Shotton
Former Derby and Birmingham defender Ryan Shotton can play across the defensive unit and that versatility has made him an important player under Tony Pulis.
CB – Ben Gibson
Part of the strong defensive unit at Boro, Gibson is a ‘no-nonsense’ type of player. He has been with the club for a long time and wears the shirt with pride.
CB – Daniel Ayala
The former Liverpool defender has very much found a home in the North East. He is the ball playing defender in the side, and his experience provides help to the defence.
LB – George Friend
George Friend is in excellent form at the moment, and gets up and down the left-hand side to provide cover for the attack and the defence.
LCM – Stewart Downing
Stewart Downing is the heart and soul of Middlesbrough Football Club, his return was a wonderful moment for the fans as he has played well in the past.
CM – Grant Leadbitter
Grant Leadbitter is an excellent defensive midfielder and the perfect player for Tony Pulis. He does the simple part of the game very well.
RCM – Muhamed Besic
Tony Pulis is likely to give a debut to his newest signing from Everton. Besic never really got an opportunity to prove his worth on Merseyside and will be hoping to do so here.
LW – Patrick Bamford
The ex-Chelsea youth product can sometimes show flashes of brilliance but cannot be fully relied upon. Will need to be defensively stronger than usual, against Norwich.
ST – Britt Assombalonga
Britt Assombalonga was so devastating at Nottingham Forest and has been so for Boro as well, albeit occasionally. But he will have to be better for the rest of the season.
RW – Adama Traore
Adama Traore had more successful dribbles in January than 5 clubs in the Championship. He is a willing and dangerous runner who is having a very good season.