Pulis likely to keep the same side as unbeaten Middlesbrough host West Brom

Posted Thursday, August 23, 2018 by PA

Middlesbrough manager Tony Pulis is unlikely to make changes for Friday’s Sky Bet Championship clash against West Brom with the Teessiders intent on maintaining their unbeaten start to the season.

Boro currently sit second in the table on goal difference behind Leeds and above Bolton, with all three sides on 10 points from their four games to date, but would go top again with a positive result.

Pulis looks to have missed out on a loan deal for Everton’s Yannick Bolasie, but is still hoping to capture his team-mate Muhamed Besic as he attempts to strengthen his squad further.

Striker Rudy Gestede remains on the sidelines and continues to work his way back from an ankle problem, while Daniel Ayala and Jordan Hugill played in a behind-closed-doors friendly against Hartlepool in midweek in a bid for match-fitness.

Baggies boss Darren Moore is likely to stick with the men who romped to a 7-1 victory over QPR last time out.

Moore restored his big guns for Rangers’ visit to the Hawthorns last Saturday after resting them for the Carabao Cup victory over Luton.

Defender Tosin Adarabioyo replaced Allan Nyom following his season-long loan move to Spanish side Leganes and will hope to retain his place after a fine team display.

Dwight Gayle scored the first goal of his loan spell from Newcastle in last weekend’s rout and will be looking for more as he continues his blossoming partnership with Jay Rodriguez.