Michael Carrick will remain in charge for Middlesbrough trip to Bristol City on Friday night, despite reports claiming the Teesside club were lining up a replacement.
After spending the majority of the season in and around the play-off places, Boro have hit an alarming run of form that has seen them pick up just two wins since Christmas. A 1-0 defeat against Watford on Saturday was their fourth in succession and means they have drifted towards mid-table.
Their latest result was met with some discontent from the stands, whilst it also saw the Hornets move above them in the Championship standings.
Middlesbrough Refusing To Panic
The tight nature of the division means that Middlesbrough’s fate for the remainder of the campaign is still well and truly in their own hands. Although 11th, they are just four points off sixth-placed West Bromwich Albion whilst also possessing a game in hand.
Carrick only committed his future to the club in June last year, signing a new three-year deal that is set to expire in 2027. As such, his future is not thought to be in any immediate danger.
According to Teesside Live, the 43-year-old will remain in charge for this weekend’s clash with Bristol City. The Robins are one of the teams that currently sit above Boro in the league table, although three points would see them leapfrog their opponents.
The report also states that Carrick will be given time to turn the club’s fortunes around, with owner Steve Gibson said to be a huge fan of the former Manchester United and England midfielder.
Writer’s View
Too often we see clubs make a rash decision which ultimately backfires on them. Carrick is a manager who has built a decent reputation in Middlesbrough and he deserves the opportunity to turn their form around. Although recent fixtures have been concerning, the play-offs are still well within reach and a win over Bristol City on Friday would see them move up to seventh, albeit temporarily.
It seems speculation claiming the Teesside-based club were considering a move for former Nottingham Forest and Leicester City boss Steve Cooper this morning were well wide of the mark. However, things change quickly in football and two further defeats over the course of the next week could spell the end of Carrick’s rein on Riverside.
