Things are slowly starting to improve at the Riverside following a poor start to the season for Middlesbrough.
After a poor run of form some people were already resigning Middlesbrough to the drop, but the North East side have rallied and managed to pick up a much needed victory over Bournemouth at the weekend.
With some tough fixtures ahead, they will have to dig deep if they want to drag themselves away from the relegation battle but they have the personel to do just that.
Manchester City (Away)
This is pretty much the worst possible scenario for Boro following such a morale boosting victory. City smell blood in the water once again following their win over Barcelona, and this one could get ugly for Karanka’s men.
If they set up shop and defend from the off they could steal a point, but the home side will likely be too strong for them.
Prediction: Manchester City 2-0 Middlesbrough
Chelsea (Home)
The definition of nightmare scenario as City’s fellow title contenders Chelsea will be Boro’s next opponents.
With the Riverside faithful having now experienced a home league win, it could prove to be the catalyst for a strong run at the ground. Then again, the Blues like to strike early and if they catch the home side off guard it may well get ugly.
Prediction: Middlesbrough 1-3 Chelsea
Leicester City (Away)
You never quite know what you are going to get with Leicester City, however they do seem to be slowly transitioning their European form back into the Premier League.
Boro will fight hard for a point and they have the potential to cause an upset, but as Leicester continue to grow they are starting to look like the champions of last year.
Prediction: Leicester 2-1 Middlesbrough
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