Preston North End desperately need points on Friday, Jan 1 at 4:00 PM in the Championship. With the team sitting in the bottom three, this is quickly becoming a must-win situation.

Middlesbrough come into this fixture drawing too many games (3D in last 5). Preston North End travel struggling badly (1W 3L in last 5), which may hand the initiative to the hosts.

In 10 previous meetings, Middlesbrough lead 3–5 with 2 draws. Their last encounter ended in Middlesbrough won 4–0. These two tend to produce goals — averaging 3.2 per game in recent meetings.

Verdict: The gulf in league position makes Middlesbrough clear favorites, but Preston North End have shown they can grind out results. Expect Middlesbrough to take the points, potentially without being at their best.