Middlesbrough FC vs Sunderland FC Team Lineups
The highly anticipated EFL Championship encounter between Middlesbrough FC and Sunderland FC promises an intense battle, with both teams fielding strong squads.
Middlesbrough FC is expected to rely on their consistent performers in attack and midfield, while Sunderland FC will look to balance defensive solidity with creative play.
If you want to watch the match you can also look into out Middlesbrough v Sunderland live stream match guide, which runs you through the TV Channels on the game.
Injury Updates and Squad News
Both the Middlesbrough FC squad and Sunderland FC squad are dealing with minor injury concerns ahead of this clash.
Sunderland will likely remain without defenders Jenson Seelt, Niall Huggins, and Aji Alese due to injuries, while Chris Mepham has yet to achieve full fitness following his loan move from Bournemouth.
After last weekend’s late defeat, Regis Le Bris is expected to stick with an unchanged starting XI, with Trai Hume, Dan Ballard, Luke O’Nien, and Dennis Cirkin forming an unaltered back four.
In midfield, Alan Browne will push for inclusion, but 17-year-old Chris Rigg and 18-year-old Jobe Bellingham are expected to retain their places alongside Dan Neil.
Up front, Patrick Roberts, Eliezer Mayenda, and Romaine Mundle—who has scored in three consecutive Championship games should continue in the attacking trio heading into the Tees Wear Derby.
Middlesbrough manager Michael Carrick continues to grapple with a lengthy injury list, as defenders Darragh Lenihan, Dael Fry, Tommy Smith, and Alex Bangura remain sidelined, along with midfielder Jonny Howson and forward Marcus Forss.
With these defensive absences, Luke Ayling, Matt Clarke, George Edmundson, and Neto Borges are expected to remain in a consistent back four. In midfield, Aidan Morris will hope to break into the lineup after Daniel Barlaser and Hayden Hackney were preferred in the last match against Preston.
Ben Doak and Delano Burgzorg are vying for spots in an already potent attack featuring Isaiah Jones, Tommy Conway, Finn Azaz, and Emmanuel Latte Lath, the latter boasting an impressive 16 goals in his debut Championship season.
Key Players to Watch in the Match
This fixture will showcase some of the most exciting talents in the EFL Championship. Middlesbrough FC’s attacking force will revolve around their top scorer, who has been pivotal in recent matches.
Sunderland FC’s midfield maestro is expected to orchestrate their forward plays while their defensive stalwart keeps things tight at the back.
Both sides possess game-changers capable of deciding the match, making this a must-watch for fans and football analysts alike.