Michael Carrick reveals whether Middlesbrough would sign a free agent defender amid injury crisis.
Michael Carrick did not rule out Middlesbrough seeking a new centre-back on the free agency market if George Edmundson and Rav van den Berg’s injuries worsened, but he maintained his pleasure with his squad alternatives.
Edmundson and Van den Berg are both doubts for Saturday’s game against Derby County, but neither has been ruled out officially. The club was still analysing ankle and knee injuries sustained by the defensive duo earlier this week to ascertain the degree of the injury and the likely time of absence.
If both players are out for an extended amount of time, Boro will only have Dael Fry as a senior centre-back. Darragh Lenihan is unlikely to return after 16 months out, while Matt Clarke was recently sold to Derby. Ayling has previously performed well as a centre-back, and Jonny Howson is preparing to return and provide protection.
When asked about the free agent market, Carrick responded: “Let’s see where we’re at. I don’t want to get ahead of ourselves while we’re still appraising the boys. A lot can happen during a season, including injuries. We have players who can cover. Luke [Ayling] came on the other night as we were drawing and won.
“He’s played there before, and we’ve won games there too. Neto [Borges] has previously played there, and Jonny [Howson] will be able to do so once he returns. There are numerous factors that can play into it. I believe we have a well-balanced squad to cover any scenario, and hopefully we can make the most of it.”
Saturday’s team selection should offer a clearer indication on whether dipping into the free agent market may be necessary or not. In terms of who might be available, former Leicester defender Daniel Amartey and ex-Boro centre-backs Daniel Ayala and Kenneth Omeruo are among the list of centre-backs currently without a club.
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