Preston North End vs Middlesbrough Prediction: Preston can move into playoffs with win

Preston North End will welcome Middlesbrough at Deepdale Stadium in Game Week 32 of the English Championship. Preston can move into playoffs with a win. Who will come out on top after 90 minutes?

Preston, under the leadership of Ryan Lowe, has experienced a resurgence with consecutive wins over Ipswich Town and Cardiff City. Previously, Preston had only won three out of 13 matches, causing them to drop in the league standings. However, their recent victories have brought renewed confidence to the team, as they now sit just four points behind fifth-placed West Bromwich Albion. Despite their improvement, Lowe remains cautious and recognizes that there is still work to be done. Nevertheless, he believes his team has what it takes to come out on top in their upcoming match against Middlesbrough, especially considering that their only defeat in the last five matches was a last-minute 2-1 loss to Leeds United. Assuming there are no fitness issues, it is expected that Lowe will select the same Preston XI that won convincingly at Cardiff. If fresh legs are preferred, Ledson or Brady are likely to return. Kian Best and Duane Holmes are the only players currently injured. 

Woodman; Storey, Lindsay, Hughes; Potts, Browne, Whiteman, Frokjaer-Jensen, Millar; Keane, Riis

Despite their inconsistent performances this season, Middlesbrough had a chance to make a push for promotion with three consecutive home matches at the Riverside Stadium. However, their failure to win any of these matches against Rotherham United, Sunderland, and Bristol City has raised doubts about Michael Carrick's position as manager. Apart from a successful EFL Cup run, Middlesbrough has had a poor season, drawing with Rotherham and Sunderland before suffering a 2-1 defeat to Bristol City. Falling six points behind the playoff positions, Middlesbrough's chances of reaching the top six seem unlikely, and they will need to secure victories in the short and long term to have any hope of getting back into contention.

Carrick is expected to make several changes, with Thomas and McGree likely to get opportunities. Coburn may miss out again, allowing Greenwood to retain his place in attack. Additionally, six players, including Crooks who has moved to Real Salt Lake, will be absent. 

Glover; Ayling, Fry, Van den Berg, Thomas; Hackney; Barlaser; Forss, McGree, Azaz; Greenwood

With the momentum on their side, Preston is rightfully favoured to win this match at home. However, Boro is in need of a response and we believe Carrick's team will deliver, even if it results in a draw.