Middlesbrough manager Michael Carrick must consider the future of one senior player after a rough 2023/24 season.
Middlesbrough as a squad did not have a great 2023/24 Championship season.
Boro reached the semi-final stage of the League Cup, eyeing their first trophy since 2004, but were bested by Chelsea.
In the league, meanwhile, Michael Carrick was unable to match his first season at the Riverside Stadium, with the Teessiders finishing fourth – four places lower than 2022/23.
Heading in 2024/25, Boro’s promotion chances look a lot better, especially after ending the previous campaign with just one loss in 12.
However, while big things are expected of Middlesbrough this year, one first-team player is likely to continue his struggles from last season.
Middlesbrough may need to sell Anfernee Dijksteel
The player in question is Anfernee Dijksteel, who joined Middlesbrough from Charlton Athletic in 2019.
The defender has previously been a key member of Boro’s backline but has struggled since the arrival of Carrick.
Dijksteel played 20 league games in 2022/23 and matched that number in the most recent season.
The 27-year-old was afforded just 739 minutes of action across those games and has not completed a full match since December 23rd, 2023.
This is despite the fact Boro were lacking defensive options for much of 2023/24 due to persistent injury issues.
Now, with the Dutchman having just 12 months left on his current contract, it may be time for Carrick to move him on.
Middlesbrough should be wary of right-back position
Dijksteel being sold this summer does make sense as he is clearly not viewed as an important player by Carrick.
However, at 27, he is the youngest of Boro’s three right-backs and his sale should alert the club to the fact they need to strengthen in that position sooner rather than later.
Luke Ayling assisted eight in 19 games while on loan from Leeds United last season and has rejoined the club on a free transfer.
But though Ayling is expected to hold a prominent role in 2024/25, he turns 33 in August and is coming toward the end of his playing career.
Tommy Smith will provide backup to the Englishman but he is also getting on, having turned 32 in April.