Michael Carrick has moved to quell the concerns of Boro fans who will have noted the absence during recent friendlies of last season’s star man and the Championship’s top scorer, Chuba Akpom.
The Middlesbrough boss answered the question of his whereabouts during an interview on BBC Tees saying, “He has had a problem with his knee, Chuba, so unfortunately for us, he has missed a few weeks, but hopefully, we will have him back pretty soon.”
It will come as a welcome update for the Boro faithful, who had growing concerns that something was not right after seeing three friendly games without his inclusion. Speculation has so far been minimal with regards to clubs making an approach for the former Arsenal man who bagged 29 goals last season, but there is still plenty of time during the transfer window and he will almost certainly command some interest from Premier League sides looking to bolster their attacking options.
However, it seems clear from the club and coaching staff that they intend to keep hold of their talisman and are in no hurry to sell. Akpom enjoyed the season of his life last season and probably feels he owes some of that success to his Head Coach who identified immediately that he should be utilised in a deeper role, rather than right up against the centre-backs. It was clear just how hurt the prolific forward was at missing out on promotion last time out, and fans will hope to see him line up in Boro colours again come August.
Another player that was also missing from last night’s away encounter at Rotherham, a player who was integral to Boro’s excellent form last season was Jonny Howson. The Boro captain suffered from injury towards the end of last season’s campaign, but it seems on this occasion it is nothing more than precautionary. In a report by Gazette Live, it was revealed by Carrick that, “Jonny started pre-season Jonny, but just picked up a bit of a niggle, unfortunately for him. It’s nothing more major than that and we’ll look to have him back pretty sharpish.” Howson-alongside Hayden Hackney-makes Boro tick and will be protected wherever possible this season you feel. Dan Barlaser is a competent alternative, but it is expected that with Alex Mowatt returning to West Brom, the recruitment team will be looking for another midfielder to cover just as Mowatt did in spells during last season.
During the same interview, Carrick also explained the omission of Paddy McNair who has been subject to transfer murmurings following the arrival of highly rated centre-back Rav van den Berg. He added, “Paddy has just had a sore achilles, he’s training again tomorrow.”