How we think Michael Carrick will line Boro up this Saturday against Millwall with a fresh look in the side.
Middlesbrough will aim to bounce from their defeat against Leeds United this week when they host Millwall at the Riverside.
In a game that has taken on a new twist this week with the announcement that Neil Harris will step down as Lions manager, it is critical that Boro do not be swayed by this news and instead rise to the possible occasion. Millwall’s players are likely to be encouraged by the news to win one final game for their manager.
Michael Carrick’s side has dropped out of the top six after picking up only one point from tough away games against Burnley and Leeds, so they must go back to winning ways. We expect Carrick to take advantage of this opportunity to shake things up a bit. Here is our expected team.
Seny Dieng, custodian for Leeds, was unlucky with their opening goal. He then went on to make some excellent saves throughout the game and should keep his spot for this one.
Luke Ayling is expected to replace Anfernee Dijksteel, who has performed well in Boro’s previous two games. Although not at last season’s levels, Dijksteel’s recent form may have brought out a new level in the veteran, who can be beneficial in this game against a team that will attack the penalty area.
George Edmundson, Boro’s DC, was one of the team’s finest players at Elland Road, despite a clumsy pass to Leeds. He is dominant in the air and should be well-suited to this game.
Luke Ayling is expected to replace Anfernee Dijksteel, who has performed well in Boro’s previous two games. Although not at last season’s levels, Dijksteel’s recent form may have brought out a new level in the veteran, who can be beneficial in this game against a team that will attack the penalty area.
George Edmundson, Boro’s DC, was one of the team’s finest players at Elland Road, despite a clumsy pass to Leeds. He is dominant in the air and should be well-suited to this game.
Matt Clarke will replace Dael Fry, who missed the Leeds game due to sickness. While he is likely to be ready to return to the squad, this type of game will be a physical clash, and if he is even slightly off 100%, it may be a difficult day. Clarke is strong in the air and a good penalty-area defender, so he should be able to handle this one.
DL: Neto Borges Borges faces a difficult evening against Dan James, but he is expected to preserve his position. Really strong in the air, which could be an advantage in this game against such a physically taxing team.
CM: Hayden Hackney. Hackney will be aware that his passing was not as precise at Burnley or Leeds, and he will be determined to regain his form in this game. Carrick will want his midfield to bring the ball down to counteract Millwall’s lengthier play, and Hackney’s enthusiasm and positivity can help him win this game.
CM: Jonny Howson. Dan Barlaser struggled against Leeds but has otherwise performed well in his recent appearances, with Aidan Morris still out injured. But, with a need for a change and a desire to win this midfield struggle, Howson might return for this one.
Ben Doak, RW, is expected to be the first name on the team sheet once fully fit. The Liverpool loanee is a standout in this Boro team, terrifying practically every left-back he faces. He’s an obvious choice.
Finn Azaz, the Championship Player and Fans’ Player of the Month for November, hopes Boro’s increased possession would allow him to play in his preferred areas and contribute to the game.
LW – Delano Burgzorg – Carrick reported Riley McGree is suffering from a chest infection and will need to be checked. Burgzorg has performed admirably recently and was a surprising addition to Leeds’ roster. It makes sense to reinstate the former Huddersfield player.
ST: Tommy Conway Millwall’s desire to play long balls will force Boro to press from the top position in this game. Conway edged over Emmanuel Latte Lath in that regard, which is why we expect the Scotland international to return to the starting lineup.
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