Middlesbrough v Norwich: Preview, Odds, Predictions (April 14)

Initial Thoughts

Michael Carrick has transformed Middlesbrough’s fortunes this season, but yo-yo team Norwich City will believe they can still battle their way into playoff contention.

The Narrative

Vincent Kompany may be grabbing all the headlines for his managerial success in the Championship, but another ex-player from the other side of Manchester is also making waves in England’s second tier this season as well.

When Michael Carrick took over from Chris Wilder as Middlesbrough head coach last October, the north-eastern side were 22nd in the EFL table and just a single point above the drop zone.

After a dreadful start to the campaign that saw Boro rack up just four wins in 15 games, Carrick was handed the reins in what was the former England international’s first ever permanent managerial role.

Few expected the turnaround that followed, with Carrick guiding his new side to 16 wins and three draws from 25 Championship matches, and transforming Middlesbrough from basement strugglers to a promotion chasing team.

That success recently landed Carrick alongside Kompany on the shortlist for Championship Manager of the Season, but with only five games left in the season the ex-Man United legend is hoping his team don’t fall at the final hurdle in their hunt for Premier League football next campaign.

Nuts and Bolts

Norwich City will make the journey north to the Riverside Stadium on Friday night, just seven points short of Middlesbrough in eighth position.

David Wagner’s side have been outside the playoff places for most of the second half of the season, and have only one win in their last six Championship matches.

But a late playoff run is far from out of the question for the Canaries, who have conceded just three times in their last six outings and are unbeaten in their last five fixtures away from home.

Middlesbrough came out on top the last time these sides met back in November, but only courtesy of a 92nd minute winner from Matt Crooks after Norwich had taken the lead early in the match.

Carrick’s side are clearly feeling the effects of a ling-busting season and after suffering only a single loss since late January are now winless in their last three games.

Middlesbrough showed character to come back from 2-0 down and earn a draw away to Bristol City on Monday, and back on their home turf Carrick's men will also hope to get back to winning ways against Norwich on Friday night.

Homestand Picks

All odds courtesy of Northstar Bets

Middlesbrough moneyline (-110)

Both teams have been inconsistent of late, but the home advantage gives Middlesbrough the edge in this Championship clash.

Parlay: Both teams to score & Over 2.5 goals (-107)

While Middlesbrough have shipped eight goals in their last three outings, they also found the net in each of their last seven. The Canaries opened the scoring against Boro last time out, and we’re picking another high-scoring match on Friday.

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