Michael Carrick has revealed that Ben Doak will remain at Middlesbrough for the rest of the season after the Liverpool loanee was linked with a move in January.
The Boro boss stated that the Reds' opportunity to invoke a recall clause in Doak's loan deal is now over. Liverpool are said to have already rejected bids from Ipswich Town and Crystal Palace for the Scotland international, while Bournemouth have also been touted as a potential suitor.
The 19-year-old joined Middlesbrough on loan this summer and impressed during his time at Riverside. Doak scored three goals and provided six assists in his first full season in senior football.
Carrick is pleased to have retained Doak's services in the coming months. The former Manchester United midfielder spoke about his striker's abilities after his goal against West Bromwich Albion on Tuesday.
“The deadline has passed for Ben,” Carrick said. 'I said I was calm all the time!
“Of course we're very happy to have him here, but to be honest it wasn't that big of a deal for us. He showed again tonight how dangerous he is and then scored a great goal. It's something that he needs a little bit more can do, come in on his left foot, because he is good at that too.
“He has that weapon and a unique threat. The way he plays the game, everyone has their own strengths, but the way Ben plays the game, he is always in the game and always a threat. We are obviously glad he's staying. He plays a big role and he will continue to do so as long as he is here.”
Earlier this season, Doak revealed that Arne Slot played a role in selecting where he was loaned out. The Dutchman approved the opportunity to work under Carrick.
“I've been on the pre-season tour with Liverpool, had a good time, got a few minutes for the first time since my injury last year and I think I made a good impression before the injury,” Doak said.
“I had a few clubs with eyes on me. The club also helped me choose and I saw a few Boro games and knew a few lads here. I didn't think there was a much better place than the Boro, especially to be honest because they have the ball on the right side and the team naturally focuses on my game.
“The club (Liverpool) helps you refine things, then you speak to the players and then choose the team you like, and Arne Slot obviously approved that choice. He said Michael's team is playing very good football and he is making the team play very well.”
Comments