Carrick not focused on promotion permutations
Michael Carrick hailed a ‘complete team performance’ as Middlesbrough ended promotion rivals Sheffield United’s long unbeaten run with a 3-1 win at Bramall Lane.
The Blades had not been beaten in 10 Championship gamesandlookedoncourseto move 13 points clear of thirdplacedBoroafterOliMcBurnie gave United an early lead.
But the visitors hit back to level through Chuba Akpom before Cameron Archer scored twice to give them a fourth straight win and cut the gap to seven points. Boro boss Carrick was not focused on the maths in the battle for automatic promotion as he shared his pride in his team.
“I’m immensely proud of the boys – the whole group, to be honest,” the former ManchesterUnitedmidfieldersaid.
“The belief that they showed, even when we went one down. It was a big challenge, coming here. It wasn’t about the league position for us – it was about coming up against a good team on a great run. It’s a tough place to come to. Some of the play was top drawer and it looked a completeteamperformanceinthe end.Iwasjustproudoftheway the boys went about it, more than anything. To show that belief in each other and stick together.
“It’s easier to not play your football and then it’s easy to take the safe route and hope you get through it. I thought theladsbelievedinthemselves and it showed.”
On Boro’s automatic promotion chances, Carrick added: “What will be will be – it’s just a case of playing games. Yes, we managed to beat them, but they’re a terrific team. I’ll not get carried away about the league position at all just yet. I’m only interested in performances and winning games.”