Middlesbrough host Wrexham this weekend as they look to continue their excellent start to the season.
Middlesbrough were one of the standout teams in the Championship in the opening weeks of the season. After eleven games into the year, Boro are second in the table and four points ahead of third-placed Millwall.
Below new boss Rob EdwardsMiddlesbrough look a completely new side last season. Now in their ninth season outside the top flight, they look set to command some serious promotional money this campaign.
In midweek, Boro went to Sheffield Wednesday and secured all three points. It was a fairly dull affair that evening, but Morgan Whittaker’s second goal in two games was enough to win Middlesbrough the match.
Their opponents this weekend, Wrexham, have failed to live up to expectations so far this year. The Red Dragons have once again spent the summer well, but are currently in 15th place.
Phil Parkinson’s team ended a four-match winless streak last time. They beat Oxford United 1-0 at home Nathan Broadhead emerging with the goal, his second in the competition for the club.
Nathan Broadhead’s career in numbers – via Transfer market
Callum Doyle was sent off for Wrexham in the second half. Despite being down to 10 men, they still held on to gain valuable three points and their third win of the season.
Here, a handful of our writers make their predictions for the game…
Charlie Hodgson
“This could be a huge game for both parties involved. For Middlesbrough, they need every win they can get at this stage to keep themselves away from play-off hopefuls.”
“As for Wrexham, despite a supposedly poor start to the year, they are just five points off the play-offs. With the Championship wide open this year, every game is important and Parkinson will know that.
“Having said that, I think Wrexham will give Boro a good game here. However, I think the home side will simply have too much on the day and take the three points.”
Prediction: Middlesbrough 2-1 Wrexham
James Ray
“Back-to-back wins since returning from the international break provided the perfect response from Middlesbrough amid concerns they might slip away after such a good start.
“The longer they keep this form, promotion hopes will grow stronger and stronger on Teesside.
“However, Rob Edwards is a shrewd manager and he knows that adversity awaits. This weekend’s visit to Wrexham provides a tough test, with the Red Dragons boasting a solid squad with plenty of proven Championship talent.”
“Parkinson’s men certainly have what it takes to upset Boro, but I can’t look past the hosts at the moment. I’m going for a 2-0 home win.”
Prediction: Middlesbrough 2-0 Wrexham
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