Middlesbrough Boss Michael Carrick Says He Doesn’t Need ‘Sympathy’ or ‘Assurances’ Amid Poor Run

Middlesbrough Boss Michael Carrick Says He Doesn’t Need ‘Sympathy’ or ‘Assurances’ Amid Poor Run

Middlesbrough manager Michael Carrick has responded defiantly to speculation about his future at the club, stating he does not need “sympathy” or “assurances” from the board as pressure mounts following a disappointing run of results.

 

Carrick, who took charge at the Riverside Stadium in October 2022, has found his position under increasing scrutiny after Boro managed just one win in their last seven Championship fixtures. The poor form has seen the club slip out of the play-off positions, sparking concern among fans and leading to questions about whether Carrick remains the right man for the job.

 

Speaking at his pre-match press conference ahead of Saturday’s clash against Hull City, Carrick remained composed and firm in his belief in the process.

 

> “I don’t need sympathy, and I certainly don’t need reassurances,” he said. “I know what this job involves. The pressure is part of it. I’ve been in the game long enough to understand the ups and downs that come with management.”

 

Carrick, a former Manchester United and England midfielder, had been widely praised for his impact last season, guiding Middlesbrough into the promotion conversation with a dynamic and attractive brand of football. However, injuries to key players and inconsistent performances this term have undermined the team’s momentum.

 

Despite the club’s recent slump, Carrick refused to blame circumstances or look for excuses, instead calling for focus and unity.

 

> “We all want results, and when they don’t come, questions are asked — that’s normal,” he continued. “But I believe in the group we have. The effort in training has been top class, and we’re all working hard to put things right.”

 

When asked whether he had spoken with Middlesbrough’s hierarchy about his position, Carrick said he maintains regular communication with the board but does not seek guarantees about his future.

 

> “We talk all the time about football, the team, how we can improve,” he explained. “That’s what matters — not whether I need someone to tell me I’m safe. That’s not how I operate. I trust in what we’re building here.”

 

Fans have grown increasingly frustrated after Boro’s most recent defeat — a 2-1 loss away to Preston North End — which left the team languishing in mid-table. Some sections of the support have begun calling for a change in leadership, but Carrick remains focused on the job at hand.

 

> “Criticism is part of the territory. I’ve been through it as a player and now as a manager,” he said. “The important thing is to stay calm, stay focused, and do the work.”

 

With a critical home fixture on the horizon, Carrick knows that results must improve quickly to ease the tension surrounding the club.

 

> “I’m confident we can turn it around,” he added. “We’ve got talent, character, and a lot of football still to play. It’s about sticking together and showing what we’re made of.”

 

Whether Carrick can ride out this storm remains to be seen, but there is no mistaking his resolve as he faces one of the most testing periods of his managerial career.

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