Preston North End head to the Riverside this weekend looking to get back on track after a difficult few weeks
The Lilywhites have lost their last three games across all competitions, without scoring a goal. However, after midweek Championship action, Paul Heckingbottom’s remain sixth in the table as they go into battle with second placed Boro.
Milutin Osmajic will be unavailable after his late red card against Hull City on Tuesday night, for violent conduct. Brad Potts’ knock will likely see him join Daniel Iversen, Andrew Hughes, Andrija Vukcevic and Robbie Brady on the sidelines.
Here is our predicted PNE XI to start at the Riverside.
1. GK: Jack Walton
Going to be needed over the next few weeks with Iversen missing. Hopefully with each game he can grow in confidence and sharpness. | CameraSport - Rich Linley
2. RCB: Odel Offiah
Was deployed at left centre-back last game but it didn't pay off as hoped. You would expect him to return to right centre-half here. | CameraSport - Andrew Kearns
3. CB: Jordan Storey
A few crosses have caused him issues in the middle of the back three but he's also put in some strong performances. Unless Liam Lindsay is brought into the side, Storey should start there. | Getty Images
4. LCB: Lewis Gibson
Offiah on the left meant Gibson being back in the middle, where he is best suited. But, in the absence of Hughes, he's the obvious selection on the left of the three. | CameraSport - Rich Linley