Cardiff City are back in league action as they host Michael Carrick's Middlesbrough.
The Opposition:
After a disastrous start to the 23/24 season, finding themselves bottom and winless after seven, Boro improved significantly and pushed up the table in the second half of the season. Carrick's side finished in a respectable 8th, just four points off the play-offs.
Middlesbrough have been active in the transfer window as they seek a Top six finish this season. Boro have signed Luke Ayling from Leeds, Micah Hamilton from Manchester City, Neto Borges from Clermont Foot, Delano Burgzorg from Mainz, Tommy Conway from Bristol City and Aidan Morris from Columbus Crew.
Carrick has typically set his side up in a 4-2-3-1 formation, but it fast evolves into a much more fluid system that is difficult for the opposition to defend against. Boro generate plenty of width under Carrick by shifting their formation when in possession to push one full-back high while the other drops in to create a back three.
The Bluebirds:
Cardiff come into this one on the back of a defeat in the Carabao Cup against Premier League side Southampton. A young Bluebirds side came unstuck late on despite a valiant effort.
It's likely both sides will have a fair share of possession in spells of games, it's about who will make the most of it. Cardiff will have to replicate the second half against Swansea, and be on the front foot in order to secure their first win of the season.
Team News:
Cardiff City - David Turnbull is back available for The Bluebirds. Joe Ralls, Isaak Davies, Ryotaro Tsunoda, Jamilu Collins, Kion Etete and Will Fish remain out.
Middlesbrough - Riley McGree, Dael Fry, Marcus Forss, Alex Bangura and Darragh Lenihan out for the visitors. Jonny Howson and Rav van den Berg could feature.
Preferred XI:
GK - Ethan Horvath
RB - Perry Ng
RCB - Calum Chambers
LCB - Jesper Daland
LB - Callum O'Dowda
RDM - Manolis Siopis
LDM - Alex Robertson
CAM - Rubin Colwill
RW - Ollie Tanner
LW - Chris Willock
ST - Callum Robinson
Prediction:
Cardiff City 1-1 Middlesbrough
Two sides still looking to find their feet, I think both teams will get chances and will have to settle for a point.
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