'I can't see it' - David Prutton issues Middlesbrough vs Birmingham City prediction ahead of Aitor Karanka reunion

The Spanish coach left Boro in 2017 after four years in charge on Teesside, and has since gone on to manage Nottingham Forest and, more recently, the Blues.

Karanka is struggling to get the best out of his side in the midlands this season, however, and Birmingham are currently 19th in the table, just four points outside of the relegation zone.

By contrast, Neil Warnock continues to do a fine job at the Riverside, and while last weekend’s FA Cup third round defeat to Brentford was a setback, Boro are still going strong in the league, and could move into a play-off place with a win this weekend.

Prutton is optimistic about their chances too.

The pundit told Sky Sports: “Middlesbrough are in a decent stretch of form in the Championship.

"That FA Cup defeat at Brentford last week won't bother Neil Warnock too much at all.

“Birmingham are on a bad run.

"Will a return to the Riverside inspire Aitor Karanka? I can't see it if I'm honest.”

Middlesbrough have enjoyed mixed fortunes against the Blues in recent times.

The two teams last met before Christmas, with Boro running out 4-1 winners in a comfortable display. Britt Assombalonga, George Saville, and Lewis Wing got the goals that day.

By contrast, they took just one point from their two meetings last season, drawing in January after losing 2-1 in the reverse fixture.