2020-21 Championship – Middlesbrough vs Stoke Preview & Prediction
THE FACTS
When does Middlesbrough vs Stoke kick off? Saturday 13th March, 2021 – 15:00 (UK)
Where is Middlesbrough vs Stoke being played? Riverside Stadium, Middlesbrough
Where can I get tickets for Middlesbrough vs Stoke? Check official club websites for the latest ticket information
What TV channel is Middlesbrough vs Stoke 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 Stoke in the UK? If televised, subscribers can stream the match live on Sky Go
THE TEAM NEWS
MIDDLESBROUGH
Predicted line-up (3-5-2): Bettinelli; Hall, McNair, Fry; Spence, Tavernier, Morsy, Howson, Bola; Akpom, Bolasie
Unavailable: Brown (Injured), Dijksteel (Injured), Fletcher (Injured)
Questionable:
STOKE
Predicted line-up (4-2-3-1): Gunn; Smith, Souttar, Chester, Norrington-Davies; Allen, Obi-Mikel; Brown, Powell, Clarke; Fletcher
Unavailable: Campbell (Injured), Collins (Injured)
Questionable: Batth (Injured)
THE PREDICTION
Almost a week has now past since Middlesbrough’s controversial 2-1 defeat away at Swansea and manager Neil Warnock is likely still seething over the late penalty, which cost his side a well-earned point in South Wales. Therefore, the hosts are expected to make a fast start here vs Stoke showing intensity as they aim to bounce back with immediate effect. However, the Potters are made of stern stuff at the back and will make things hard for Warnock’s men as they sit back and soak up pressure from the hosts with a view of hitting them on the counter attack, using target man Steven Fletcher as a focal point. This is likely to lead to a contest low on entertainment, particularly from an attacking standpoint and so under 2.5 goals looks the smart play, regardless of who comes out on top.
