Alex Gilbert; Middlesbrough’s first player through the door during a busy summer transfer window, is still a big part of the squad, according to Michael Carrick.
Gilbert, a player prized from the impressive Brentford B set-up is yet to feature this season, but the Boro head coach insists that it is purely a case of having lots of quality in that area of the pitch. He said of Gilbert’s lack of inclusion, “He is not injured, Alex is a big part of the squad.
“At this moment in time, we have got strength in numbers in certain areas and unfortunately for players-I’ve been there myself-you have got to sit one or two out.”
In an interview on the club’s website during Boro’s summer tour in Portugal, the head coach spoke about the quality possessed by Gilbert, labelling him a ‘really good footballer’ who could ‘play in between lines’ and could ‘score goals’.
Boss’ hope for Gilbert
Unfortunately for Alex Gilbert, chances have been scarce despite the early praise from his boss. But there was no suggestion from Carrick that there is an issue surrounding his decision to not pick the 21-year-old attacker, and he insists the player understands the situation, regardless of what he may have thought coming in to the club this summer.
“Alex is fine, he’s training great, actually, he’s training really well. Change of club, change of experience for him, adapting really well, so, we’re hopeful and we’re excited what’s to come for Alex.”
With the current poor run of results of the side so far this season, fans have called into question the decision not to blood the former Brentford man, especially given his apparent pre-season form, which saw him notch two goals.
During a campaign that has seen Boro use 23 players in league matches already, Gilbert-a player who was voted Brentford B’s Player of the Year for the 22/23 season-can think himself unlucky not to be called upon.
That could change in the future though, as Carrick insisted that he should continue to be ambitious. “I think it is still important for you to believe that you should be in the squad or you should be in the team, you have got to have that inner belief and confidence that you belong at this level or at a higher level.
“I’d expect that from all the players really, and hope for that anyway.”
Attacker’s versatility key to chances
A torrid run of four defeats and two draws in their opening six league matches has seen the attacking players rotated frequently. Morgan Rogers, Riley McGree, Isaiah Jones, Marcus Forss, Sami Silvera, Sam Greenwood and Matt Crooks have all been tried across the three attacking positions behind the striker.
Gilbert is a player who can play at number ten and also in a more advanced striker role. The problem for Carrick currently, is that he does not appear to know his best eleven.
Alex Gilbert will be hoping that his audition for a spot is just around the corner. Middlesbrough have a Carabao Cup match against Bradford to navigate on Tuesday of next week. It may be that he gets his chance against the Bantams.