Middlesbrough made a number of signings throughout the January transfer window, but one journalist believes head coach Michael Carrick was still let down on deadline day.
Boro made three deals throughout the winter window, signing both Luke Thomas and Luke Ayling on six-month loans while also acquiring the services of Finn Azaz from Aston Villa, having been recalled from his temporary stint with Plymouth Argyle.
However, supporters will be most devastated by the sale of young playmaker Morgan Rogers who made the switch to Villa Park on deadline day for a fee that could reportedly reach up to £16 million. The 21-year-old scored seven goals and recorded nine assists in 33 appearances in all competitions this term under Carrick at the Riverside Stadium.
While Azaz may be seen as the long-term successor for Rogers, journalist Graeme Bailey has revealed that Middlesbrough tried to sign a number of players on deadline day but failed to complete a single deal.
Speaking to Boro.news, Bailey said [quotes via Football League World]:
“I understand Boro tried for a number of players on deadline day but came up short.
“The club’s hierarchy have let Michael Carrick and the fans down.
“This Boro squad are not far off the play-offs, but now they have a huge task on their hands,” he continued.
“Everyone around them brought in players, everyone around them bolstered their ranks.
“Yes, the arrival of Luke Thomas and Luke Ayling does help, it makes them stronger – but they just don’t look to have the firepower in depth.”
Middlesbrough are currently sitting 11th in the Championship, four points behind the final playoff place which is occupied by Coventry City, but face a huge clash against fellow promotion hopefuls Sunderland on Sunday afternoon.
Writer’s View
Boro have strengthened at the back, particularly in the fullback areas which was wise by the club given the number of injuries within the defence this season. However, one could argue that the side is actually weaker.
Most of the teams above them in the table made new additions on deadline day while Middlesbrough didn’t manage to get any deals for attackers over the line which could bite them in the backside later in the campaign.
Deputy Head of Writing
