Middlesbrough are starting to hit form at the right time under Tony Pulis as they aim for the play-offs with Barnsley their next opponents.

Boro moved into the play-offs with their win against Birmingham in midweek. However, the gap is only one point between them and Bristol City and Preston who are just below them in the table; Sheffield United have a game in hand which would draw them level although Middlesbrough have a better goal difference.

They are currently on a four game unbeaten run with the next game against The Tykes being seen as a must-win considering the gulf in league places between the two teams.

The league is in the business end of the season, so teams challenging for the play-offs can't afford to drop points. Barnsley have been in mixed form under new manager Jose Morais with four points in four games, so they are unlikely to provide too much of a challenge even though they are fighting relegation.

Here's the XI Pulis should play for this game...

Randolph will be in the net as usual. He hasn't missed a league game all season even though Boro have changed managers this season. His clean sheet against Birmingham in the last match was his 14th of the season so far.

Shotton brings solidity to the full-back role. He has made the position his own after Cyrus Christie was sold to Fulham due to him fitting the full-back profile that Pulis prefers with Christie being too attack minded. Although Shotton did assist Patrick Bamford's goal against Birmingham.

Ayala is likely to form one half of the centre-back partnership. He will be hoping to get a third consecutive clean sheet as the team starts to become defensive solid which is a key part of Pulis' teams.

Gibson should partner Ayala in the heart of defence as he has been the model of consistency with only one game missed all season, which was due to injury. He will have to try and keep the lively Oliver McBurnie under wraps.

Friend will be key on the left side of defence as he strikes a balance between supporting Stewart Downing on the overlap while also doing his defensive duties.

Clayton starts in the absence of Grant Leadbitter due to injury. He will act as a screen in front of the defence with recycling possession and forcing Barnsley wide being his priorities.

Besic should start in central midfield. Similar to Clayton, he will prioritise breaking the opposition attacks while ensuring possession is quickly given to the creative players. He has impressed since joining from Everton on loan in January.

Baker should take Howson's place in the team in order to give him some rest after playing two full games within the space of a week. The Chelsea loanee will bring some drive from midfield and could thrive against lower table opposition.

Traore is likely to start on the right wing. He is the chief creative outlet of the team and is showing promising signs of development due to his remarkable dribbling ability finally resulting in chances being created. His creative output will be key in breaking down Barnsley's defence.

Downing will provide some experience in the final third from the left wing. His consistency has been key all season and he will be aiming to provide Andrew Yiadom with problems.

Bamford should start over Britt Assombalonga due to his recent form. He has exploded into life with five goals in his last three games with three prior to that all season. His partnership with Traore will be key in this game as he looks to continue his impressive run.