Middlesbrough are set to host Lincoln City in their Championship opener, with manager Kim Hellberg expected to make two changes from their Carabao Cup win over Wrexham. The injury picture has improved, with Kyle Joseph in full swing after his cameo in the cup win. Alfie Jones, Myles Peart-Harris, and Riley McGree have all been back in training this week. That leaves Aidan Morris and David Strelec, who were rated at 50-50 to be back for this game, while Tommy Conway remains a few weeks away.
What's changed?
The predicted team for Lincoln City has two changes from the Carabao Cup win over Wrexham. The injury picture has improved, with Kyle Joseph in full swing after his cameo in the cup win. Alfie Jones, Myles Peart-Harris, and Riley McGree have all been back in training this week.
Why it matters for Middlesbrough
The predicted team for Lincoln City is a crucial test for manager Kim Hellberg's tactics and player selection. With a lot of positive transfer work already done, Hellberg has a number of interesting selection dilemmas. The team's performance in the Carabao Cup win over Wrexham has given Hellberg a good starting point for the Championship opener.
What comes next?
The Championship opener against Lincoln City is a must-win game for Middlesbrough. The team's performance will set the tone for the rest of the season. With a strong predicted team, Middlesbrough are confident of a good start to the season.
League standing (final 2025 table -- new season not yet under way): 5th in Championship, 80 pts, 22W-14D-10L from 46 games, recent form LLDDW. Goals this season: 72 scored, 47 conceded (+25 goal difference). Title race: 15 points behind leaders Coventry. Last result: Hull City 1-0 Middlesbrough (2026-05-23). Recent form (last 5): 0W-1D-4L (LLLLD, most recent first); lost the last 4.
