Derby vs Middlesbrough

15/12- An inspirational leader and a potential team have made their presence felt. Not long ago Middlesbrough were accompanying Derby in the relegation zone and with things looking gloomier than ever before when they had to face league leaders Arsenal at a time when the Gunners had not lost a single match in the current premiership season and the side under Garreth Southgate showed what they were capable of by defeating the leaders 2-1 which proved that Southgate had finally struck the right chords with his team and they are here to stay.

 

After such an inspiring win and a jump to the 16^th spot Middlesbrough would be looking at strengthening their position outside the relegation zone, an away victory and full points could possibly mean a skip to the 13^th spot and things would look much more brighter. With a skipper in sublime form in the form of Boateng, Middlesbrough have plenty to look forwards to and to add to the list striker Downing also seems to be in great form after the amazing show against Arsenal. Though the team has been able to manage just one victory away from home this season their second does not look far away at least after the performance they put up in their previous match.

 

On the other hand Derby are probably staring in the eyes of relegation already, a win against an improving Middlebrough side looks highly unlikely and a single victory in 16 matches this season already speaks about the kind of time they are having. It is a highly depleted side and Derby boss Paul Jewell would need to put some magic in his side. The side in a way looks out of the competition already and if something can bring them back and keep their hopes alive in the top league, it can be magical brilliance only.

 

Prediction: 0-3, Middlesbrough win