It’s been a strong start to the season from Middlesbrough, who appear to have put last season’s failed promotion push behind them.  

Despite an unconvincing 2-2 draw with Millwall on the opening day of the season, Tony Pulis’ side are going from strength-to-strength and currently top the Championship table.

Victories over Sheffield United and Birmingham City came following the draw with Millwall, leaving Boro with seven points from their opening three fixtures of the season.

This weekend, Pulis’ side will be looking to extend their unbeaten start to the season against Bristol City, with the Teessiders heading to Ashton Gate for a difficult clash.

Pulis has provided some early team news ahead of that clash, with Dael Fry expected to be available, but Jordan Hugill and Rudy Gestede still on the sidelines.

With that in mind, we take a look at the starting XI we are expecting Pulis to field at Ashton Gate…

Randolph is Pulis’ first choice and that will not be expected to change in the coming weeks.

Shotton has been used down the right by Pulis, and although he might be pushed further up the field against the Robins, we’ve selected him in a right-back position.

With Daniel Ayala still working his way back to full fitness, Fry’s availability is a huge boost.

The centre-back should continue.

With Ayala out and Ben Gibson now departed, Flint is Pulis’ main man at the back.

He’ll be hoping the ex-Bristol City favourite can have a big impact on his Ashton Gate return.

If Shotton plays further forward, Friend could tuck in as a third centre-back.

However, if Pulis goes with a flat back four, Friend will be in his usual left-back position.

Clayton should be the deepest of Boro’s midfielders, with it his job to shield Pulis’ defensive unit.

Wing has had a good impact so far this season, with the midfielder expected to continue tomorrow.

Howson completes Boro’s midfield trio, with Pulis likely to stick with the same personnel that beat Birmingham last time out in the Championship.

Braithwaite has enjoyed a strong start to the season in a much more advanced position.

If Shotton is pushed forward and a five-man midfield is created, it will leave Braithwaite with a licence to drift centrally.

Last season’s top goalscorer will be looking to be amongst the goals again this weekend.

With so many forwards on the sidelines, keeping Assombalonga sharp is going to be key.

Downing will line up on the left.

Should Shotton be pushed into more of a wing-back role on the right, Downing will be expected to do the same on the opposite side.

However, if it’s a straight 4-3-3 from Pulis, the winger will complete the attack.