For some clubs, the summer transfer window is a place to bolster and optimise fan excitement ahead of the new season, but here we have a matchup of two fairly dormant sides.
The case is more extreme and worrying for Middlesbrough, having made just the three signings so far this summer – Aden Flint, Paddy McNair and Andy Lonergan, the latter coming in the form of a backup.
The case becomes all the more worrying when you consider the departure of Patrick Bamford and the impending exits of Ben Gibson and Adam Traore. Travelling to the Den is always a tough task and with morale seemingly low at the Riverside, Neil Harris’ men will be sure to hold no prisoners.
Team News – Millwall:
Harris’ men go into their season opener with a strong side, Lee Gregory returns to the Millwall team having missed their final pre-season game for the birth of his child. New signings Jiri Skalak, Murray Wallace and Ben Amos are all in contention to make their debuts for the Lions. Harris will have a full set of players at his disposal ahead of ‘Boro’s visit.
Team News – Middlesbrough:
Last seasons playoff semi-finalists will have received a big boost ahead of today, with the news that Adama Traore will feature, despite strong interest from Wolves. New signing Aden Flint is expected to start but alongside who is still uncertain, Ben Gibson is in talks over a move for Burnley but the club will be hoping for one last game out of their captain, Paddy McNair is also available to start.
Players to watch
A new season and new players looking to stake their claim in the Championship, with the first game of the season one of the most important for morale purposes. For Middlesbrough, their main threat will come in the form of Adama Traore, ‘Boro will look to the Spaniard for his pace and exceptional ability down the wing for the majority of their attacks and with a Premier League move in the air for Traore, there may be an extra incentive.
As for Millwall, their success last campaign came through their ability to break down teams as one unit, rather than individual players taking the spotlight. The goals of Lee Gregory will be detrimental to any form of success for the Lions, but Millwall’s talisman will be dependant on service, with Jed Wallace a player with the ability to take centre stage.
