Middlesbrough’s next three fixtures will define their season

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It’s been a hit-and-miss start to the season for Middlesbrough as they go in search of promotion to the Premier League.

We’re nine games into the season now and Michael Carrick’s side are currently sat just outside of the play-off places in ninth place.

With four wins, two draws, and three losses, it’s been up and down but as the Teessiders enjoy the international break, the next three fixtures could define how the remainder of the season goes.

What do Middlesbrough’s next three games look like?

For Carrick and Co, there are three very different challenges to face after the break.

The first game is arguably the easiest on paper as they face 16th-placed Bristol City at the Riverside Stadium on 19 October.

A reunion for Tommy Conway will be in store but for Boro, this is a great chance to prove that they can be clinical and kill teams off after concerns about the lack of goals this season.

Second up is a daunting trip to Sheffield United. The Blades, still unbeaten in the Championship, are one of the frontrunners for promotion and will be one of the toughest tests of the season.

Boro will be the underdogs in this game but should they walk away with a point, it would be a huge one that could be the difference between a place in the top six or not.

Norwich City are the final side Middlesbrough will face in the run of three fixtures.

Under new management, Norwich have looked better with each game that goes by and currently occupy seventh place.

Looking resurgent and playing an exciting brand of football, the Canaries have scored 12 goals in their last four games but with Boro at home, a win is certainly possible.

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Middlesbrough should be targeting five points from the next three fixtures

To get through this period of fixtures without losing would be a massive step in the right direction for Carrick’s side.

After the disappointing campaign last season, play-offs have to be the target, and picking up results against sides such as the trio Boro face after the international break is imperative.

Should they walk away with a minimum of five points, then that can be the catalyst for the promotion push.