Middlesbrough are still undecided about whether to replace Michael Carrick as head coach, with a decision expected in the next week.
It was an unexpectedly poor campaign for the Teessiders. Widely tipped to achieve at least a play-off place before the start of the season, Boro fell away in the final few weeks to finish 10th, four points off the top six.
This led to speculation that Carrick would end up being shown the exit door, although various reports last week claimed that it was very much business as usual at the Riverside Stadium. The 43-year-old also admitted that the unpredictable nature of the Championship was his biggest challenge of the last 12 months.
Season Review May Play A Role In Decision
It has now been claimed that the former Manchester United and England midfielder may still lose his job in the coming weeks. According to Football Insider, a decision is set to be made over his future within the next week following an end of season view.
Details published by Teesside Live revealed that from a poll of 7,500 supporters, 61% believed the past season was an outright failure, with a further 34% saying that performances fell below expectations.
Even more damning was that 50% said the failure was down to coaching and tactical issues whilst 46% believed it is time for a new coaching team.
The report does offer a conflicting view from that of Football Insider though. It states that Carrick is still expected to remain in charge next season, with the club sympathetic of the various injuries within his squad as well as the January sale of Emmanuel Latte Lath.
Writer’s View
Michael Carrick is still highly regarded by the powers that be at Middlesbrough so any decision to show him the door will be done so reluctantly. It is true that he received his fair share of bad luck this season, especially on the recruitment side. However, it has now been two seasons since Boro achieved a top six finish and it is only a matter of time before patience begins to wear thin. That said, should he depart the Riverside Stadium, he is someone that will attract plenty of interest. Expect him to remain in charge for at least the first quarter of next season though.
