Middlesbrough face Burton Albion in the Carabao Cup quarter-final this evening, and the winner will play Premier League opposition if they progress.
Here is the predicted Middlesbrough line-up for the quarter-final clash against Burton Albion:
GK – Dimi Konstantopolous
‘Dimi’ as he is known to Boro fans may get a rare start. He has been rotated with Andy Lonergan so far in the competition, but impressed last time out against Crystal Palace.
RB – Ryan Shotton
Middlesbrough look less balanced when Shotton is not in the side, and his experience could be key here.
CB – Dael Fry
Fry has been unlucky to lose his place in the team after several good performances. He should return this evening.
CB – Danny Batth
Another who is unlucky to be dropped is Danny Batth. Ayala and Flint could be rested, with Batth and Fry the centre-back pairing.
LB – George Friend
With no other left-back in and around the first-team George Friend will be expected to start. Although youngster Djed Spence could feature.
CM – Grant Leadbitter
Leadbitter should captain the side, as he has done in every round in this competition so far.
CM – Muhamed Besic
The Bosnian was suspended for the game against QPR on Saturday and should return to give Middlesbrough a directness that has been lacking.
CM – Lewis Wing
Wing was the official player of the round last time out, and should come back in for the Burton clash.
RW – Marcus Tavernier
Another who has impressed in this competition, and was ultimately rewarded with a start in the Championship is Marcus Tavernier. He could start behind the striker in a number 10 role, but could also start out wide.
ST – Ashley Fletcher
Fletcher is the Carabao Cup’s leading scorer with three goals and will look to continue his goalscoring form tonight.
LW – Martin Braithwaite
Tony Pulis has said that Braithwaite will feature in the game, despite transfer rumours circulating. Whether he starts or comes on from the bench remains to be seen.
