The latest round of the FA Cup clearly showed that even Middlesbrough, currently second in the EFL Championship, are still not ready for the level of the Premier League they are aiming for.
West Bromwich Albion
West Bromwich Albion were more fortunate with the draw, getting another side from the lower half of the second tier, Swansea City. They needed a penalty shoot-out (3:2) to get through. The squad benefited from the Swansea City goalkeeper scoring one of the goals, and the woodwork came to their aid as well. Despite the positive result, that match was the only one under caretaker James Morrison: from Sunday, West Bromwich Albion have been permanently managed by Eric Ramsay, who has come through the coaching set-up at Chelsea and Manchester United. He now has to lift the club from 18th place.
Middlesbrough
Middlesbrough, although they lost 1:3 to Fulham in the FA Cup, are still in second place in the EFL Championship, six points behind leaders Coventry City. They also caused Fulham serious problems: the hosts only equalised around the hour mark, and Middlesbrough created their two scoring chances from just seven shots. That defeat was their third away loss in a row after matches against Bristol City (0:2) and Derby County (0:1).
West Bromwich Albion vs Middlesbrough Prediction
It is risky to back Middlesbrough at the moment because of their away run, and equally risky to back West Bromwich Albion because of their low position. However, the new manager effect may play its part. In addition, the hosts have lost only twice in 12 home matches, so we opt for the Double Chance on them.
