Middlesbrough got their automatic promotion campaign back on track with a 3-1 victory over Birmingham City on Monday night.

That will have given fans hope that they can finish the job, but there is still a long way to go in the promotion race, and there is a good chance that the gap to third place will be closed by the time Boro play next.

Sky TV will cover QPR vs Middlesbrough on Sunday.

That’s because Boro’s trip to QPR at 4:30pm on Sunday is the final game of the next round of fixtures, so the Teessiders will know exactly where they stand when the first whistle blows at Loftus Road.

Some will argue whether this is a good or bad thing, but it will undoubtedly put more pressure on Boro if all of their opponents win.

Of course, this is not a typical kickoff time for a Championship game, and it will not be employed on a regular basis in the future.

However, this weekend is unique for broadcasters since it is the FA Cup fifth round, which means no Premier League games.

The cup competition is broadcast by TNT Sports and the BBC, and because Sky has no top-flight games to pick from, it frees up the calendar for the EFL.

So, in addition to Friday night football, the 12:30 slot on Saturday and 12:00 on Sunday, they are able to show another EFL game, which is why QPR versus Boro will air at 4:30pm.

The match between QPR and Middlesbrough is a must-watch for neutral viewers. Middlesbrough has been a popular choice for broadcasters this season, and it’s clear why.

Obviously, the fact that they are in a position to finish in the top two is a major element in any decision, since those teams vying for the top two spots will be highlighted most weeks as the race to the top heats up.

Furthermore, Boro are worth seeing under Hellberg, who encourages fast, aggressive football.

However, it’s not all about Boro this weekend, and QPR will enjoy their chances of causing what many would consider an upset.

Julien Stephan’s side is now in mid-table, but they have caused plenty of issues for elite teams over the years, particularly at Loftus Road, where the stadium creates a good atmosphere because the spectators are so near to the pitch.

Loftus Road has witnessed 55 goals in 17 games this season, with Hull and Wrexham the only two stadiums that can match that figure.

With Coventry being the only team to outscore Boro on the road, it promises to be an intriguing match, which is no doubt a major reason for its prime TV position this weekend.