This used to be a regular Premier League fixture before becoming a regular in the Championship. However, Middlesbrough’s promotion back to the top flight makes them the favourites for this match.
Fulham on the other hand have made a good start to their 2016/17 campaign. Despite a recent stuttering of draws, they remain in 5th place having made an unbeaten start to the season.
Many Championship sides going for promotion tend to throw away the League Cup, however, the Whites will want to get back on track and back into form after their recent draws so I expect to see a strong squad take to the field at Craven Cottage.
Aitor Karanka’s Boro side have also made a decent start to their season and are so far undefeated on their return to the Premier League after a seven year absence. Their win over north east rivals Sunderland over the weekend will be a major boost of confidence, especially to Uruguayan Cristhian Stuani who scored both goals in the 2-1 win.
Premier League survival is essential for Middlesbrough and I can imagine a much changed side in London on Wednesday evening in view of the club’s priorities.
With Championship side Fulham possibly fielding the stronger team and being at home, I would have to back them to beat Middlesbrough in this fixture.
You can get a win for Slaviša Jokanović’s side at a very reasonable 9/4 whilst I would also certainly back his side to merely qualify (includes extra time and penalties) at 6/5.
See Wednesday’s other EFL Cup tip here.