It’s a play-off six-pointer this evening, as Middlesbrough make the trip to Humberside to face Hull City at the MKM Stadium.
Michael Carrick‘s side know they’ll have to win if they are to stand any chance of finishing inside the top six.
With a seven-point gap to make up on sixth-placed Norwich City, who have played a game more, there is no room for error.
Carrick has some key players returning to his side just at the right time heading into the final five games of the season.
With that said, he has to take a gamble on this ‘outstanding’ Boro ace.
Michael Carrick must take a gamble on Hayden Hackney
Hayden Hackney has been sidelined through injury since midway through February when he twisted his knee during a 2-1 defeat against Preston North End.
He and Rav van den Berg appeared on the bench against Swansea City on the weekend but Carrick admitted they weren’t ready to play any part.
“Big boost to have them back. They weren’t ready to really play, to be honest, but we wanted to have them there so that they were back in and around the group,” The Boro boss said.
“They haven’t had much training at all really. Hopefully they’ll come through the next few days all right and then we’ll make a call for Wednesday.”
Ordinarily, if it was earlier in the season, there would be little chance of Hackney starting against Hull, but Carrick may opt to take a gamble.
If he feels comfortable enough, Hackney could play the first half and see if he can influence proceeding before a planned substitution.
Indeed, it’s unlikely he’ll be ready to play the full 90 having had such a lengthy injury layoff, so Carrick does need to manage him accordingly.
- READ MORE: Middlesbrough predicted XI v Hull City
Michael Carrick must ease pressure on his players
A lot is riding on tonight’s game so Carrick will need to ease the nerves.
The former Manchester United assistant has to instil a mentality of fearlessness in his players, almost like there is nothing to lose.
Middlesbrough can’t become timid and let the occasion get the better of them, they need to really take the game to the visitors.
For the neural, it could be a really entertaining encounter to watch, with both teams in search of the three points.