Middlesbrough signed off for the October international break by blowing a 1-0 lead against Watford.
Prior to facing Watford, Middlesbrough looked to have turned a corner and were finally starting to put together a decent run of form.
The Teessiders earned a massive victory over West Bromwich Albion, who were top of the Championship when the two sides met at The Hawthorns.
After that huge midweek win, Middlesbrough beat Stoke City 2-0 at the Riverside Stadium, getting some much-needed revenge on The Potters after being thumped 5-0 by them in the second round of the Carabao Cup earlier in the season.
As a result, though the Hornets were undefeated at home prior to Boro making the trip, most of the North East outfit’s fans likely fancied their side to secure a third win on the spin.
However, when all was said and done, Middlesbrough lost 2-1 to Watford, moving them down to ninth in the Championship table.
Michael Carrick decision to drop Riley McGree vs Watford was baffling
George Edmundson tapped in a loose ball from a Finn Azaz free-kick to make it 1-0 to the Teessiders in the 54th minute.
However, Boro were unable to hold onto their lead with late goals from Edo Kayembe and Kwadwo Baah handing Watford the three points.
As has been so often the case this term, Tom Cleverley’s side took advantage of Middlesbrough’s inability to defend down their left flank.
Upon reflection, Michael Carrick’s decision to drop Riley McGree vs Watford was baffling, as the Austrialin had been key to Boro keeping two clean sheets in their previous two games, tracking back constantly to provide cover for the attack-minded Neto Borges.
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Why Carrick dropped Riley McGree for Middlesbrough defeat to Watford
Finn Azaz, Delano Burgzorg and Micah Hamilton have all operated on the left wing at times this season.
But as is evident by the number of goals Middlesbrough have conceded down their left, it is clear McGree is the only winger Carrick has available who offers enough defensive support.
Now though, the Northern Echo have provided an update as to why he was dropped against Watford earlier this month.
It was explained that McGree was rested by Carrick because the Boro boss is keen to be patient with the winger after his time on the injury list.
Thankfully McGree has not picked up a fresh injury, that we know of, and he should hopefully be back in the eleven this weekend when Middlesbrough host Bristol City.