The Championship is arguably the most unpredictable, unforgiving league in Europe. It is a real grind and there will be bumps on the road.
After a challenging start to the 2023/24 campaign, Middlesbrough will have an opportunity to make a statement this weekend. Tomorrow’s clash with Huddersfield Town presents Boro with another chance to silence their critics and put three points on the board.
“We understand the start of the season brings fresh challenges,” admitted Boro boss Michael Carrick. “Some get up to speed quicker than others.
“Performances have not necessarily been poor; it is just results have not been exactly what we wanted.
Carrick is not short of options as Middlesbrough prepare to welcome the Terriers to the Riverside. New arrivals Lukas Engel and Emmanuel Latte Lath are in contention to make their Boro debuts.
Carrick has a decision to make at left-back. Does he persevere with Hayden Coulson? Or does he throw Engel straight in at the deep end?
A lack of goals has been a big issue for Middlesbrough so Carrick may elect to bring in Engel. The rest of the back four is likely to remain the same, with Paddy McNair filling in at right-back.
Carrick will have to choose between Jonny Howson and Dan Barlaser in the midfield engine room. It would not be a great surprise to see Howson partner Hayden Hackney in the centre as Boro bid to return to winning ways.
After a quiet showing at Coventry City, Isaiah Jones’ place in side is under serious threat. Marcus Forss will be hoping for a recall on the right of the front three.
Matt Crooks and Riley McGree could miss out, with Sammy Silvera expected to retain his spot on the left flank. The arrival of Latte Lath means he can lead the line and free up Morgan Rogers to play in the No 10 position.
Carrick said: “We have had a fair turnover of players in recent weeks. We know each other very well in general as a group.
“We know what we expect of each other. They know what they get from us as a coaching staff and we certainly know what we are getting off the players.
“I’m confident we will play better and improve. I’m confident results will turn around for sure but it’s up to us to do that and show that we are capable of doing it.”
Boro team to face Huddersfield (4-2-3-1): Dieng; McNair, Fry, Lenihan, Engel; Howson, Hackney; Forss, Rogers, Silvera; Latte Lath.
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