Middlesbrough midfielder Marcus Tavernier.Middlesbrough midfielder Marcus Tavernier.
Middlesbrough midfielder Marcus Tavernier.

The Middlesbrough starting XI which could face Barnsley with two changes from Watford draw

Middlesbrough will be hoping to end a three-match winless run when they travel to Barnsley this weekend – but it won’t be easy for Neil Warnock’s side.

The Tykes have been in excellent form in recent months and have won 10 of their last 13 league games under manager Valerien Ismael.

That run of results has given Barnsley a real chance of finishing in the play-offs, and the hosts sit fifth in the table ahead of kick-off.

As for Boro, it’s not impossible for them to reach the top six, yet Warnock has already accepted his side’s chances are extremely unlikely.

With aspirations of winning promotion next season, Warnock will be assessing his squad over the final six games, while looking at the areas he wants to strengthen.

Boro drew 1-1 with Watford last time out but may alter their formation to match up Barnsley’s system.

Here’s who we think could start for the Teessiders.

As for Boro, it’s not impossible for them to reach the top six, yet Warnock has already accepted his side’s chances are extremely unlikely.