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Betting on Blackburn vs Middlesbrough: Boro poised to reclaim top six spot

Betting on Blackburn vs Middlesbrough: Boro poised to reclaim top six spot

Blackburn are set to try and improve their fading chances of reaching the play-offs when they face Middlesbrough at Ewood Park. Middlesbrough are currently outside the top six based on goal difference.

Under Valerian Ismael, Blackburn have suffered four consecutive defeats, earning only one point in the five games he has managed since taking over from John Eustace. The team has slipped from fifth to 11th in the table since Eustace's departure to Derby, with Middlesbrough benefiting from Blackburn's decline.

Middlesbrough, managed by Michael Carrick, experienced a five-game losing streak earlier in the season but have bounced back by earning 13 points from their last 18 available.

Team news

Injuries have hit Blackburn with Owen Beck and Hayden Carter both ruled out of the upcoming match due to hamstring and calf issues suffered in the last game against Portsmouth. They join a growing injury list that includes several key players like Augustus Kargbo, Emmanuel Dennis, and Andreas Weimann.

Ryan Hedges and Joe Rankin-Costello are expected to fill in the gaps in the Blackburn lineup. Meanwhile, Middlesbrough may field an unchanged team for the fourth game in a row, with the possible return of Rav van den Berg and Riley McGree adding to their options.

The stats

Blackburn have already defeated Middlesbrough twice this season. Middlesbrough have struggled to score against Blackburn recently, with their last goal against them coming over 300 minutes ago.

Finn Azaz has been a standout performer for Middlesbrough, contributing 10 goals and 12 assists in the Championship. On the other hand, Tommy Conway has a good record against Blackburn, having scored three goals in his last four appearances against them.

Prediction

Blackburn fans are discontent with the team's performances, which may affect the atmosphere in the stadium. Ismael's tactics and decisions have been under scrutiny, leading to a lack of confidence in the team.

This game presents a good opportunity for Middlesbrough to climb back into the top six. Their recent resurgence and key players stepping up give them an advantage over a struggling Blackburn side.

Middlesbrough seem to have regained their team spirit, with players like Neto Borges and Hayden Hackney taking on leadership roles. With Azaz creating chances and Conway finding the net consistently, Middlesbrough look set to capitalize on Blackburn's current struggles.