Michael Carrick talks about Mark Travers’ Middlesbrough arrival.
Michael Carrick characterised Mark Travers’ signing as an opportunity that Middlesbrough ‘had to take’ due to his quality and experience.
Boro needed a new custodian after Sol Brynn and Seny Dieng sustained long-term injuries, leaving Tom Glover as the only fit senior custodian in the club. While Glover did nothing wrong during his time in goal, he was backed up for much of December and January by 19-year-old Shea Connor, putting Boro at serious risk if the Australian international sustained an injury.
As a result, Boro investigated the market and were pleasantly surprised to hear that Bournemouth custodian Travers was potentially available. The Irish international, a promotion winner with the Cherries, had established his quality in Premier League outings this season and was eager to play more regularly due to his position behind Chelsea loanee Kepa.
Boro had to be patient to land their guy, who was also interested in Watford. Initially, he was required to remain at Bournemouth until a fixture against Chelsea was completed, as Kepa was ineligible against his parent club. Meanwhile, fellow deputy custodian Will Dennis suffered an injury that nearly derailed Travers’ exit plans entirely. Travers eventually joined Riverside last week and made his debut against Sunderland, where he impressed with a number of excellent saves despite allowing three goals.
Carrick explained the Travers signing, saying, “Trav has settled in really well.” Obviously, with Sol and Seny’s injuries, we needed to address them and take action. We’re thrilled to have Trav. Tom [Glover] has played and performed admirably, and now Trav has joined us, leaving us satisfied with our custodian situation.
“He’s an excellent custodian who has gained valuable experience at his age. He’s played in some big, major games in the Premier League this season. That suggests he’s eager to get right in and make an effect here. He’s a fantastic custodian, and this was a chance we couldn’t pass up.”
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