Middlesbrough host Reading at The Riverside tomorrow afternoon, where the Teessiders will be hoping to build on their three match unbeaten run.
Here is the predicted Middlesbrough XI for their game against Reading this weekend:
GK – Darren Randolph
Randolph has cemented himself as one of the best goalkeepers in the division and will keep his place between the sticks.
RB – Anfernee Dijksteel
Dijksteel has took time to settle having made the move from Charlton in the summer, but is starting to show why Woodgate has shown faith in the defender since signing.
CB – Ryan Shotton
Ayala missed Boro’s last game at Bristol City through injury, and Shotton played well at Ashton Gate. The Spaniard could return, but may be rested to recover if he’s not 100% fit.
CB – Dael Fry
Fry returned to the side with the captains armband, and will be expected to do the same against Reading.
LB – Marc Bola
Bola wouldn’t have expected to go straight into the team after signing from Blackpool, with captain George Friend and Hayden Coulson ahead of him in the pecking order. But injuries mean he’s got his chance.
CDM – Adam Clayton
Woodgate likes to play with a holding midfielder ahead of the back four, and Clayton is the ideal man for the job at Boro.
CM – Paddy McNair
McNair has been one of the standout player for Middlesbrough, thriving in his natural midfield role.
CM – Lewis Wing
Wing could be swapped out for Saville, but I expect the former to keep his place.
RW – Marvin Johnson
One of the surprise success stories of the season so far is Marvin Johnson, he should continue out wide against Reading over Marcus Browne.
ST – Britt Assombalonga
Assombalonga will be expected to keep his place after his goal at Ashton Gate
LW – Ashley Fletcher
Fletcher will feel aggrieved to only have one goal under his belt so far, and will be looking to add to his tally on Saturday.
