Watford vs Middlesbrough Predictions and Betting Tips

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Teams continue the tussle for top-flight status as the 2020/21 Skybet Championship Season goes underway. Only one solitary game is set to be played on Friday as Watford play hosts to Middlesbrough at the Vicarage Road. On their path to the English top division, which one of these teams will start with a positive result.

The Hornets' stay in the Premier League came to an end in the 2019/20 season after a five-year stint in the top-flight. A series of poor results throughout the season coupled with the sacking of Nigel Adkins at the business end of the campaign condemned them to the Skybet Championship.

New head coach Vladimir Ivic certainly does have his work cut out ahead of the 2020/21 season. The Watford board seems to have his back with the addition of Stipe Perica and Glenn Murray to an already-stacked frontline. With more signings to come given that Doucoure has completed his deal to Everton, Watford is looking like a strong side.

Middlesbrough finished in 17th place only five points off the relegation zone at the end of the 2019/20 season. Following their promotion to the top-flight in the 2016/17 season, and then relegation in the same season, Boro haven't been able to find their feet taking into account their performances in the Championship since then.

Neil Warnock, however, has brought some good vibes since taking over from Johnathan Woodgate back in June given poor performances that saw them in 21st position. Neil Warnock already has his first 2020/21 victory under his belt after eliminating Shrewsbury Town from the EFL Cup. Will they be able to continue this impressive run of form come Friday?

Following his injury in their friendly against Tottenham, Andre Gray is rated doubtful for this game. Gerard Delofeu is also sidelined via a knee problem. With regards to Boro, Hayden Coulson is out via illness.

Watford possible starting XI:

Foster; Navarro, Dawson, Kabasele, Ngakia; Cleverley, Chalobah; Quina, Dele-Bashiru, Penanranda; Murray

Middlesbrough possible starting XI:

Stojanovic; Fry, Hall, Dijksteel; Johnson, Tavanier, Wing, Howson, Spence; Assombolonga, Fletcher

Watford vs Middlesbrough Prediction: 1-0

Neil Warnock and his troops will be confident heading into this game taking into account that victory last time out. However, we find it hard betting against the home side who would probably be challenging for the Championship title this season.