2020-21 Championship – Middlesbrough vs Birmingham Preview & Prediction
THE FACTS
When does Middlesbrough vs Birmingham kick off? Saturday 16th January, 2021 – 12:30 (UK)
Where is Middlesbrough vs Birmingham being played? Riverside Stadium, Middlesbrough
Where can I get tickets for Middlesbrough vs Birmingham? Check official club websites for the latest ticket information
What TV channel is Middlesbrough vs Birmingham on in the UK? Sky Sports have the rights to Championship matches in the UK, so it is worth checking their schedule
Where can I stream Middlesbrough vs Birmingham in the UK? If televised, subscribers can stream the match live on Sky Go
THE TEAM NEWS
MIDDLESBROUGH
Predicted line-up (4-2-3-1): Bettinelli; Dijksteel, Fry, McNair, Bola; Morsy, Saville; Watmore, Tavernier, Johnson; Akpom
Unavailable: Browne (Injured), Fletcher (Injured), Hall (Injured)
Questionable:
BIRMINGHAM
Predicted line-up (4-2-3-1): Etheridge; Colin, Clarke-Salter, San Jose, Friend; Kieftenbeld, Clayton; Toral, Sanchez, Leko; Jutkiewicz
Unavailable: Gardner (Injured), Halilovic (Injured)
Questionable: Pedersen (Injured), Roberts (Injured)
THE PREDICTION
With six defeats in their last seven matches in all competitions, Birmingham have slipped down the Championship so rapidly that they are starting to seriously look over their shoulders at the bottom three. Manager Aitor Karanka needs to find a solution ahead of their trip to Middlesbrough, who currently sit just outside the Championship playoff places having won four of their last five league matches. With home advantage in their favour, it’s difficult to envisage any outcome other than a Middlesbrough win here with their midfield expected to dominate this game, controlling the tempo and allowing Boro’s offensive players the freedom to attack the Blues defence at will.
