UEFA Nations event
English football fans are always eager to see who makes the starting XI.
The upcoming Championship clash between Middlesbrough and Preston North End is set for 24.01.2026 at 12:30. Here you’ll find everything about confirmed lineups, tactical approaches, and recent performances leading into one of the most anticipated fixtures in England.
Pre-Match Overview
Both clubs come into this Championship encounter with contrasting form and ambitions.
Middlesbrough, currently sitting 2 in the standings, will look to secure valuable home points, while Preston North End, positioned 6, aim to continue their climb up the Championship table.
Key match info:
- Country: England
- Date: 24.01.2026
- Kickoff: 12:30
- Favorite: Middlesbrough
This fixture has a rich history — the sides last met on 13.09.2025, finishing Preston North End 2-2 Middlesbrough.
Middlesbrough Starting XI and Tactical Notes
The Middlesbrough squad has been dominant at home throughout the Championship 2026 campaign.
Fans searching for the Middlesbrough lineup today or Middlesbrough starting XI can find it on this page.
The manager’s choices this week will likely focus on:
- Maintaining defensive stability after recent fixtures
- Enhancing midfield control and quick transitions
- Maximizing forward efficiency in the final third
Recent Middlesbrough home performances:
Date Event Score 21.01.2026 Stoke City vs Middlesbrough 1 - 2 16.01.2026 West Bromwich Albion vs Middlesbrough 2 - 3 10.01.2026 Fulham vs Middlesbrough 3 - 1
Preston North End Confirmed Lineup
The visitors Preston North End have been unpredictable this season but remain dangerous against top sides.
Their confirmed lineup for today’s Championship game will soon be announced on this page.
Performance overview:
- League standing: 6
- Recent head-to-head record: Preston North End 2-2 Middlesbrough
- Wins this season over Middlesbrough: 11
Recent away match stats for Preston North End:
Date Event Score 20.01.2026 Preston North End vs Hull City 0 - 3 17.01.2026 Preston North End vs Derby County 0 - 1 09.01.2026 Preston North End vs Wigan Athletic 0 - 1
Prediction and Final Word
As of 23.01.2026, odds point to Middlesbrough as the likely winner, but English football rarely follows the script. Weather, intensity, and tactical precision will all influence the result.
The confirmed Middlesbrough and Preston North End lineups for the Championship 2026 season will be updated here once available — stay tuned for the latest lineup news, formations, and player performances.
