Derby County and Middlesbrough both enter this fixture in a spell of inconsistent form. Derby County's recent record shows a win, three draws, and two losses in their last six matches. They have averaged 1.33 goals scored and conceded per game. Key player, Agymen, has scored 6 goals this season, while captain Adams controls the midfield. Middlesbrough, over the same period, have three wins, a draw, and two losses, averaging 1.5 goals scored and 1 goal conceded per match. Crooks has contributed 12 goals and 5 assists in attack, and McGree averages 3.1 key passes per game. The head-to-head record over the last 10 meetings is evenly split, with a 1-1 draw in the first encounter this season. Their last 15 meetings have seen an average of 3.1 goals per game. The tactical battle will see Derby County's 3-5-2 formation face Middlesbrough's 4-2-2-2, with midfield dominance and defensive stability expected to shape the game's direction. Prediction: Under 2.25 goals, and Middlesbrough -0.25.