Michael Carrick has hailed the influence of Middlesbrough captain Jonny Howson, calling the veteran midfielder “priceless” after a string of impressive displays in an unfamiliar centre-back role.
Howson, who turns 37 next month, returned to action last month after a lengthy injury lay-off, stepping in during a defensive crisis for Boro. Despite having barely trained, the skipper answered the call and has since played a crucial role in Carrick’s side climbing into the Championship play-off places.
Howson Steps Up
His latest outing came in a resolute performance during Friday’s 0-0 draw away at Blackburn Rovers, where Middlesbrough’s defensive discipline earned them a clean sheet and a valuable point in the promotion race. The result leaves them fifth in the table, with momentum building at just the right time.
“Jonny has been there, he’s felt it, he knows what it takes. I think from being back there and seeing it all in front of him, he can keep his eye on the game and manages it really well. It’s just having that calm head is priceless.”
Carrick’s praise for Howson comes with the added complexity of returning players. Both Dael Fry and George Edmundson are due to rejoin training this week, yet the form of Howson makes it difficult for the manager to rotate him out of the side—even if it means fielding him out of position.
With Neto Borges potentially sidelined for the upcoming clash against Leeds United at the Riverside, Carrick may again turn to Howson alongside Rav van den Berg in defence. Boro’s depth has been tested, but the head coach is pleased with how the squad has responded.
“The boys are in a good place,” Carrick added. “They’re playing well and pushing each other in a healthy way. There’s a lot of football to be played and everyone will play their part.”
Howson now looks likely to start against his former club, as Middlesbrough aim to continue their solid run against a Leeds side that has stumbled to just one win in their last six matches.
Writer’s view
Jonny Howson’s return has been nothing short of remarkable. At a stage in his career when many would struggle to keep pace, he’s adapted to a new role and become a defensive lynchpin. Carrick has a decision to make as players return to fitness, but Howson’s leadership, game intelligence and calming presence could be the glue that holds Boro’s play-off push together.
Dropping him now would be more than a tactical shift—it might disrupt the very balance that’s brought this resurgence.
