David Prutton is expecting Middlesbrough to return to winning ways this weekend, when they face Preston North End at the Riverside Stadium, reports Sky Sports.

Writing in his prediction column for Sky, Prutton has predicted a 2-0 victory for Garry Monk’s side against Preston.

Boro have picked up six-points from their opening four fixtures of the season, with the Teessiders struggling for consistency away from the Riverside Stadium.

Monk’s side have won both their home fixtures this season, but come unstuck away from home twice already, losing to Wolves and most recently, Nottingham Forest.

The Teessiders were particularly disappointing against Forest, losing 2-1, but missing a mountain of chances, as Monk’s side lost ground with the Championship’s leaders.

This weekend’s opponents, Preston North End, have enjoyed a positive start to life under Alex Neil, currently sitting seventh in the Championship table.

Preston have two wins from their opening four fixtures, the last of which came against Reading on Saturday afternoon.

Neil’s side have also beaten Sheffield Wednesday this season, whilst managing a draw with Leeds United away from home.

The club’s only defeat has come against Derby County, which was a narrow 1-0 loss.

The Verdict

Boro have been poor away from home but exceptional at the Riverside Stadium.

Monk’s side should return to their best this weekend after a disappointing display against Forest, but they will come up against an organised Preston side, who under Alex Neil look like play-off contenders.

If Preston can put in a display similar to the one they produced at Elland Road, there is every chance they can shock Boro.

However, with home advantage and a 100% record in their own stadium this season, it is hard to look past Middlesbrough.

Middlesbrough and Preston fans… What do you make of Prutton’s prediction? Leave us your score prediction in the comments!