Hayden Hackney explains what ex-Middlesbrough boss Michael Carrick did after he was sacked, ‘it was nice’.

Middlesbrough enters next season as an unknown entity as their search for a new manager continues. Michael Carrick was fired on Wednesday after nearly three years in charge of Boro, with his side’s failure to reach the play-offs for the second time in two years prompting Steve Gibson to hand him his P45. Now the focus is on finding a replacement, with Rob Edwards a possible successor to Carrick. However, Middlesbrough appear unlikely to attract Steve Cooper to the Riverside, and fans are divided on whether Aitor Karanka should return to Teesside.

Nonetheless, there will be a lot of change at Boro in the coming weeks and months, and the players will need time to adjust to their new manager after developing strong bonds with their previous manager over the years.

Hayden Hackney recalls what Michael Carrick told him after being sacked by Middlesbrough

Hayden Hackney has improved dramatically under Carrick since the former Manchester United midfielder came in the northeast in October 2022. The 22-year-old has been an important part of Middlesbrough’s success, and he has grown tremendously under the tutelage of the 43-year-old. Now, he has spoken up about what his now-former manager did when he was fired. Hackney stated (via The Sun): “I learnt out Thursday that I was in the squad and told my mother and father, and I was ecstatic. But, to be honest, I was upset about Michael Carrick. He’s done a lot for me.

“He trusted me to play the most of the games and was extremely helpful with everything. I cannot thank him enough for that. I texted him right away, wishing him the best of luck in the future, and he responded by wishing me luck with my trip to England. That was nice. “It’s likely the first boss I’ve lost, and I just wanted to thank him for everything. But now a new man, whoever he is, will join us, and we’ll take it from there as a squad.”

Hayden Hackney is at a crucial point in his career

With the transfer window open, Middlesbrough is aware that they face a significant challenge this summer in retaining key players like as Hackney. Lyall Thomas stated at the beginning of May that Porto intend to rekindle their interest in the midfielder this summer after attempting to buy him in January. While no offers have yet been made, Boro will be aware of the situation, as Stuttgart and Premier League clubs are also interested in the 22-year-old. Therefore, it is critical that Middlesbrough put in the ideal successor for Carrick. Hackney will need someone he knows can assist grow him and lead him to where he needs to be to succeed in his career.

If they fail to bring in an exciting new manager, Boro’s youthful ace may leave as they contemplate their transfer strategy.

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