Middlesbrough vs Preston Prediction, Match Preview and Betting Tips, Saturday, 24 January

Middlesbrough will host Preston at the Riverside Stadium on Saturday, 24 January, in what promises to be an intriguing Championship clash. This match is set to be a key encounter in the league, with both teams eager to secure valuable points. Middlesbrough, playing on their home turf, will look to use their familiarity with the Riverside Stadium to gain an advantage over Preston.

Preston, meanwhile, will aim to upset the hosts and climb the Championship standings. Both teams have shown competitive form this season, making this matchup particularly significant for their respective campaigns. As we delve into the prediction, match preview, and betting tips, it is clear that this encounter could have a substantial impact on the league positions of both Middlesbrough and Preston.

Middlesbrough vs Preston Prediction & Betting Tip

Betting Tip	Odds
Middlesbrough to win	1.59

Considering current form and statistical analysis, backing Middlesbrough to win appears to be a solid choice. Middlesbrough, with higher TMP momentum and a 50% win probability, are positioned as favourites against a Preston side struggling away from home.

• Preston have lost four of their last six away games, indicating poor form on the road.
• Middlesbrough’s TMP momentum of 243 versus Preston’s 183 suggests a significant advantage in recent performances.
• Preston’s tendency to concede goals, especially between the 31st and 45th minute, could be exploited by Middlesbrough.

Betting Odds

Middlesbrough are clear favourites in this Championship clash, with odds of 1.59 reflecting their strong home form at the Riverside Stadium. Preston, on the other hand, are seen as underdogs with odds of 5.39, but they could offer a tempting payout for those backing an upset.

Betting Tip	Odds
Middlesbrough to win	1.59
Draw	3.83
Preston to win	5.39

The draw is priced at 3.83, suggesting that bookmakers see it as a less likely outcome. For those looking at alternative markets, considering Middlesbrough’s attacking prowess, betting on over 2.5 goals could be worthwhile.

Middlesbrough Analysis & Past Performance

Middlesbrough’s recent form in the Championship has been commendable, as they currently hold second position in the league with 52 points from 28 games. Over their last five matches, they have secured three victories, including a notable 4-0 triumph over Southampton, although they have also suffered two defeats. Their attacking prowess is evident with an average of 2.00 goals per game over these fixtures, while their defence has conceded 1.40 goals per match.

Home Team	Away Team	Result	Competition	Date
Stoke	Middlesbrough	1 – 2 (Win)	Championship	21 Jan 2026
West Bromwich	Middlesbrough	2 – 3 (Win)	Championship	16 Jan 2026
Fulham	Middlesbrough	3 – 1 (Loss)	FA Cup	10 Jan 2026
Middlesbrough	Southampton	4 – 0 (Win)	Championship	4 Jan 2026
Derby	Middlesbrough	1 – 0 (Loss)	Championship	1 Jan 2026

Recent Form:

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The team has demonstrated strong home performances, winning three out of their last five home games, boasting a win ratio of 60%. Middlesbrough’s defence has managed to keep one clean sheet in the last five matches, highlighting an area for potential improvement. Morgan Whittaker remains a key figure, contributing significantly to the attack with 10 goals this season. Their ability to score consistently, coupled with solid home form, showcases their competitive edge in the league.

Middlesbrough Suspensions & Injuries

Middlesbrough face a challenging situation with a significant number of key players unavailable due to injury. The absence of Seny Dieng, sidelined with an Achilles tendon injury until early February, leaves a void in goal. Solomon Brynn is expected to step in, but this could impact the team’s defensive organisation. In defence, Darragh Lenihan and George Edmundson are both out, necessitating tactical adjustments. Alan Browne and Luke Ayling from the last line-up may be tasked with filling these gaps, but maintaining defensive solidity could be a concern.

The midfield is also affected, with Riley McGree’s hamstring injury keeping him out until early February. This could see Aidan Morris and Hayden Hackney taking on more responsibility in central areas. The absence of David Strelec and Callum Brittain due to ankle injuries further limits the team’s options, potentially impacting their attacking depth and wing play.

Player	Injury	Expected Return
Seny Dieng	Achilles tendon injury	Early February 2026
Darragh Lenihan	Ankle injury	Mid February 2026
Riley McGree	Hamstring injury	Early February 2026
George Edmundson	Hip injury	Early February 2026
Alfie Jones	Ankle injury	Early February 2026
David Strelec	Ankle injury	Early February 2026
Callum Brittain	Ankle injury	Early February 2026
Alex Bangura	Muscle injury	Early February 2026
Kaly Sene	Leg injury	Early February 2026

With no suspensions reported, the focus remains on managing these injuries. Middlesbrough’s coach, Kim Hellberg, may need to rely on squad depth and consider tactical flexibility to navigate these challenges. The unavailability of multiple first-team players could influence betting markets, with a likely increase in odds for a Middlesbrough win, as the team will need to adapt significantly to maintain competitive performance.

Alfie Jones, Alex Bangura, and Kaly Sene are also unavailable, compounding the difficulties in both defensive and attacking transitions. Replacements will need to step up in these critical areas, with tactical tweaks necessary to cover for these absences. The overall team dynamics and strategy might be affected, necessitating a more conservative approach to secure a result against Preston.

Middlesbrough Key Players

Leading the charge for Middlesbrough is Morgan Whittaker, the team’s top scorer with 10 goals. His consistent ability to find the net makes him a vital asset in their attacking strategy. Whittaker’s positioning and quick feet enable him to exploit defensive weaknesses, making him a constant threat to Preston’s backline.

Supporting Whittaker in attack is Tommy Conway, whose agility and movement off the ball are crucial for creating space and opportunities. In midfield, Aidan Morris plays a pivotal role, orchestrating play with his vision and passing accuracy. Defensively, Adilson Malanda stands out, anchoring the backline with his strong tackling and aerial prowess. These players’ performances will significantly influence Middlesbrough’s tactical approach, focusing on a balanced attack and solid defensive setup.

Expected line-up for Middlesbrough:

• Goalkeeper: Solomon Brynn
• Defenders: Luke Ayling, Adilson Malanda, Matthew Targett, Alan Browne
• Midfielders: Hayden Hackney, Aidan Morris, Morgan Whittaker
• Forwards: Sam Silvera, Alex Gilbert, Tommy Conway

Middlesbrough Tactics and Formation

Middlesbrough Tactical Breakdown:

• Formation: Expected 4-2-3-1
• Key Forward: Tommy Conway
• Midfield Pivot: Aidan Morris and Hayden Hackney
• Defensive Strength: Strong possession play, but only one clean sheet in the last five games.
• Notable Strategy: Dominant possession with effective use of wide areas.

Middlesbrough are likely to adopt a 4-2-3-1 formation, which provides a balanced approach between defence and attack. Aidan Morris and Hayden Hackney will anchor the midfield, tasked with controlling the tempo and distributing the ball effectively. This setup has been instrumental in achieving a high possession rate, as seen in their recent match against Stoke.

Offensively, Tommy Conway will be the focal point of Middlesbrough’s attack, supported by creative wingers Sam Silvera and Morgan Whittaker. Whittaker, the team’s top scorer with ten goals, is crucial in converting possession into scoring opportunities. Their strategy often involves exploiting the flanks to stretch the opposition’s defence.

Defensively, the backline featuring Alan Browne and Luke Ayling has been reliable, though the team has only secured one clean sheet in their last five outings. Middlesbrough’s strength lies in their ability to maintain possession and limit the opponent’s chances, as evidenced by their 61% possession against Stoke.

Preston Analysis & Past Performance

Preston’s recent form has been inconsistent, with the team securing only two wins in their last five matches. Their most recent home defeat to Hull City (0-3) highlighted their defensive vulnerabilities, conceding three goals despite having 56% possession.

Home Side	Away Side	Scoreline	League	Date
Preston	Hull	0 – 3 (Defeat)	Championship	20 Jan 2026
Preston	Derby	0 – 1 (Defeat)	Championship	17 Jan 2026
Preston	Wigan	0 – 1 (Defeat)	FA Cup	9 Jan 2026
Bristol City	Preston	0 – 2 (Victory)	Championship	4 Jan 2026
Preston	Sheffield Wednesday	3 – 0 (Victory)	Championship	1 Jan 2026

Recent Form:
In the last five games, Preston have scored an average of 1.20 goals per match while conceding 1.20 goals, indicative of their struggle to maintain defensive solidity. They have managed two clean sheets, but a three-match losing streak points to underlying issues.

Away from home, Preston’s performance has been relatively stronger, achieving three wins out of their last five away fixtures. Their away win ratio stands at 60%, which is a stark contrast to their overall win ratio of 40% this season. This suggests that Preston perform better under the pressure of away matches.

Currently sitting sixth in the league with 43 points, Preston’s attacking efforts have been led by Lewis Dobbin, who has scored six goals this season. However, the team must address defensive frailties and improve consistency to solidify their position in the promotion race.

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Preston Suspensions & Injuries

Preston face a challenging situation with several key players unavailable due to injuries and suspensions, which could significantly impact their tactical setup against Middlesbrough. The absence of Milutin Osmajic, who is suspended following a red card, deprives Preston of an attacking option. This could necessitate a reshuffle in the forward line, likely promoting Michael Smith to a more central role, and possibly requiring tactical adjustments from coach Paul Heckingbottom.

Player	Suspension	Matches Remaining	Expected Return
Milutin Osmajic	Red card	1	Unknown

On the injury front, Preston are without several important players, including Robert Brady and Andrija Vukcevic, both sidelined with leg injuries until early February. The absence of Daniel Iversen, dealing with a groin injury, and Andrew Hughes, out with a hamstring injury until mid-February, weakens their defensive and goalkeeping options. These injuries could force Heckingbottom to rely on less experienced squad members, potentially impacting Preston’s defensive solidity and overall team balance.

Player	Injury	Expected Return
Robert Brady	Calf Injury	Early February 2026
Andrija Vukcevic	Hamstring Injury	Early February 2026
Daniel Iversen	Groin Injury	Mid February 2026
Andrew Hughes	Hamstring Injury	Mid February 2026

The unavailability of these players might influence betting markets, as Preston’s depth and ability to field a competitive line-up are in question. Their tactical adjustments and ability to adapt to these absences will be crucial in determining the match outcome against a strong Middlesbrough side.

Preston Key Players

Lewis Dobbin stands out as Preston’s top scorer, having netted six goals this season. His attacking prowess and ability to find space in the final third make him a constant threat to opposing defences. Dobbin’s agility and sharp finishing are key assets that Preston will rely on to break down Middlesbrough’s backline.

In midfield, Ben Whiteman plays a crucial role as a playmaker, orchestrating the team’s transitions from defence to attack. His vision and passing accuracy enable Preston to maintain possession and create scoring opportunities. Defensively, Jordan Storey is pivotal, anchoring the backline with his strong aerial ability and tactical awareness, which will be essential in dealing with Middlesbrough’s attacking threats.

Expected line-up for Preston

• Goalkeeper: Jack Walton
• Defenders: Odel Offiah, Jordan Storey, Lewis Gibson
• Midfielders: Ben Whiteman, Pol Valentin, Jordan Thompson, Alfie Devine, Thierry Small
• Forwards: Lewis Dobbin, Michael Smith

Preston Tactics and Formation

Preston Tactical Breakdown:

• Formation: 3-5-2
• Key Forward: Milutin Osmajic
• Midfield Engine: Ben Whiteman
• Defensive Setup: Three-man defence with Jordan Storey, Lewis Gibson, and Odel Offiah
• Recent Challenges: Struggled defensively, conceding three goals in the last match.

Preston’s 3-5-2 formation is structured to provide width and midfield dominance, with Ben Whiteman playing a pivotal role in orchestrating play and breaking up opposition attacks. The presence of Pol Valentin and Thierry Small as wing-backs offers additional attacking options while maintaining defensive responsibilities.

In their recent outing, Preston’s defensive trio of Jordan Storey, Lewis Gibson, and Odel Offiah faced challenges, conceding three goals against Hull. This highlights potential vulnerabilities, especially when countered with pace and precision.

Offensively, the pairing of Milutin Osmajic and Michael Smith up front aims to exploit defensive gaps and provide a consistent goal threat. However, Preston’s struggle to find the net in the last game indicates a need for sharper finishing and more creative support from the midfield.

Middlesbrough vs Preston H2H Record

Looking at the head-to-head record, Middlesbrough have a slight edge with 12 wins compared to Preston’s 7, alongside 9 draws. Their last encounter was a thrilling 2-2 draw at Preston’s ground in the Championship. The last time they met at the Riverside Stadium, Middlesbrough secured a convincing 4-0 victory, showcasing their home strength.

In the Championship, these teams have been quite competitive, but Middlesbrough’s home advantage has often been decisive. Preston will be keen to improve their away form, having struggled in recent visits to the Riverside.

Home Team	Away Team	Result	Competition	Date
Preston North End	Middlesbrough	2 – 2	Championship	2025-09-13
Preston North End	Middlesbrough	2 – 1	Championship	2025-01-25
Middlesbrough	Preston North End	1 – 1	Championship	2024-09-14
Preston North End	Middlesbrough	2 – 1	Championship	2024-02-14
Middlesbrough	Preston North End	4 – 0	Championship	2023-11-28