Middlesbrough Predicted Lineup To Face Manchester United
Having taken just 4 points from the last 10 games in the domestic league, Middlesbrough are slowly starting at relegation as they are currently at 19th place in the points table, 3 points off safety. Without manager Aitor Karanka the club with have to start picking up points quickly if they are to stay in the top flight next season.
The Red Devils are unbeaten in the league for a long time now and might want to win some games consistently to start their ascent to the top-4 but they have a tricky trip to the Riverside to awaiting them this weekend.
Team News:
Daniel Ayala (hamstring), Calum Chambers (foot) and George Friend (calf) remain long-term absentees for Middlesbrough while Bernardo Espinosa and Rudy Gestede are both nursing injuries and are doubtful for this game.
Formation: 4-3-3
GK – Victor Valdes:
The former Barcelona man has been in decent form this season for Boro and should start in goal for this game.
RB – Antonio Barragan:
Made a decent outing in the game against Manchester City in the FA Cup at right-back and should start this game in a similar position in the absence of first team players.
CB – Daniel Ayala:
One of the most consistent players for Middlesbrough this season, Ayala will play a huge role against the likes of Rashford on the night against Manchester United.
CB – Ben Gibson:
Gibson has been one of the most effective centre-backs in the league this season and will be the barricade to United as they will have to beat him to score goals.
LB – Fabio:
The Brazilian failed to have any impact in the loss against Stoke and the manager will hope that he can put in a better performance this weekend.
RM – Marten de Roon:
Slowly cementing a place in the first team, De Roon is now an integral part of the squad and should start this game on the right side of the midfield.
CM – Adam Clayton:
Another player who has been impressive and has been a regular in the starting XI is Clayton. He had a forgettable night in the FA Cup but will hope to have a decent outing against United this weekend.
LM – Grant Leadbitter:
Completing the midfield three should be Leadbitter who has not been at his best recently. He should start this game on the left side of the midfield.
RW – Adama Traore:
One of the most exciting players in the squad, Traore will be a huge threat to United defence and they will have to keep him quiet to be able to take all three points from this game.
LW – Christian Stuani:
Got the full 90 minutes in the FA Cup tie against Manchester City and his performance should warrant him a starting berth for this crunch tie.
ST – Alvaro Negredo:
Came in for the injured Gestede against Manchester City but failed to influence the game. However, he should lead the attack for his side in the absence of Gestede.
Here is how they would line up: