Middlesbrough’s push for a Championship play-off spot continues as they gear up to host Leeds United at the Riverside Stadium. Their 2-0 win over struggling Blackburn Rovers on Friday propelled Michael Carrick’s side into fifth place, further strengthening their promotion hopes with 15 points collected from their last seven matches.
However, Carrick is dealing with a major injury crisis ahead of this crucial fixture. Several key players are expected to miss the game, including Liverpool loanee Ben Doak (thigh), former Leeds defender Luke Ayling (ankle), goalkeeper Seny Dieng (Achilles), Sol Brynn (shoulder), Darragh Lenihan (ankle), and Alex Bangura (Achilles).
There are also concerns over Neto Borges, who limped off at Ewood Park with an ankle issue. In addition, Dael Fry (calf) and George Edmundson (ankle) are unlikely to recover in time. With limited defensive options, Carrick is expected to rely on Jonny Howson and Rav van den Berg as his centre-back pairing.
Reflecting on Friday’s clean sheet and the performance of veteran Howson, Carrick said: “Jonny has the experience. He’s calm under pressure, and that kind of presence is invaluable. He was excellent again – a clean sheet speaks volumes.”
Carrick also praised the competitive spirit within the squad: “The boys are in a good place right now. They’re pushing each other in a really positive way. Everyone will have a role to play as the season unfolds, even if some roles are bigger than others – that’s what a squad is for.”
With the Championship promotion race heating up, Middlesbrough will be hoping their depleted squad can rise to the challenge against a strong Leeds United side.
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