David Prutton predicts 'cracking' encounter in Middlesbrough vs Cardiff City clash

Neil Warnock’s men recent upturn in form was derailed by a 3-1 defeat at the hands of struggling Bristol City in midweek, and Boro now find themselves ninth in the table, three points outside of the play-off places.

By contrast, Cardiff kept their impressive run of form under new manager Mick McCarthy going with a 2-1 win over fellow promotion contenders Bournemouth.

The Bluebirds have won their last five on the bounce in the Championship, and are currently occupying the final play-off spot.

Looking ahead to Saturday's clash at the Riverside, Prutton has backed McCarthy’s men to keep their juggernaut-like form going.

Speaking to Sky Sports News, the pundit said: “Neil Warnock versus Mick McCarthy! It should be a cracking game.

"There's a pleasing cyclical nature to the managers we are seeing at this level.

“Middlesbrough need to get back on song after a poor result in midweek, but Cardiff are in such good form.

"There is no one you would want to face less right now.

"Their run has been remarkable to force their way into the top six, and I can only see it going on.”

Prutton forecasts a 2-1 defeat for Boro.

The two sides played out a 1-1 draw when they met earlier in the season, with Sheyi Ojo striking in the second half to cancel out a George Saville effort and deny Warnock all three points upon his return to the Welsh capital.