Dael Fry is a crucial player for Middlesbrough
Following his man of the match performance against Derby County, Michael Carrick has urged Dael Fry to step up and lead Middlesbrough during a difficult period.
Boro only managed their third clean sheet of the year thanks to another outstanding defensive performance by Fry. Fry was the only senior centre-back who was naturally fit for the game, but that was still the case.
Fry spent most of the 1-0 victory with right-back Luke Ayling. However, Brazilian Neto Borges switched from left-back to slide in alongside the Teessider after the veteran was substituted early in the second half. However, Fry’s ability to win his duels throughout the game kept Boro ahead, so it didn’t affect their dominance.
Fry, who just returned from a nine-month injury layoff, now assumes more responsibility as Boro plays 11 crucial games in an attempt to secure a play-off spot. Carrick needs Fry to step up as the only centre-back who isn’t injured right now, and the head coach has trusted the 27-year-old to do so instinctively.
Carrick said: “I just think he’s at an age now where he’s got plenty of experience and he’s seen an awful lot at this club and in his career. You naturally go through phases in your profession during which you are young, middle-aged, and finally nearing the end.
The duties and your level of influence on the group change as you progress through those phases. Dael is now old enough that the next step comes easily. He has been incredibly helpful to us over the past week and is a major presence at the back.
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