Middlesbrough face Sheffield United away from home in what looks to be a good chance of making ground on the Blades. A win would take them within one point of their opponents with a game-in-hand.
Here is the predicted Middlesbrough XI:
GK – Darren Randolph
Randolph is firmly cemented as the number one choice at Middlesbrough, and made a string of fine saves against Leeds last weekend.
RWB – Ryan Shotton
Shotton’s return to the team means Dael Fry has returned to his natural position at centre-back, and Boro now look more balanced.
CB – Dael Fry
Fry sures up the defence alongside Ayala and Flint and Pulis has shown good faith in the 21-year-old.
CB – Dani Ayala
Ayala had a game of two halves against Leeds, with a poor first half and brilliant second. He will be hoping the game against Sheffield United is more like how he ended the game at the weekend.
CB – Aden Flint
Flint has been a huge part of Boro being the best defensive side in the EFL, and will continue in the back five tonight.
LWB – George Friend
With no cover at left-back, Friend will continue to captain the side at wing-back this evening.
CDM – John Obi Mikel
Mikel was ‘the best player on the pitch’ against Leeds according to Pulis, and has been brilliant since arriving from Tianjin TEDA.
RCM – Jonny Howson
Howson was another player who impressed against the Whites, and will surely start.
LCM – Muhamed Besic
With Lewis Wing set to be assessed ahead of the visit to Bramall Lane he could drop to the bench, with Besic deputising.
CAM – George Saville
After a slow start Saville has acclimatised well to live on Teesside.
ST – Britt Assombalonga
Fellow-striker Jordan Hugill came off injured on Saturday, and Britt Assombalonga should start against Sheffield United.
