Fascinating analysis of what Michael Carrick has done at Middlesbrough, in his first managerial job, is going viral
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A detailed video of what Michael Carrick has achieved with Championship side Middlesbrough since taking over has gone viral.
Carrick was part of Manchester United's coaching setup until stepping down from his role following a spell as caretaker manager last December.
The former midfielder showed potential as a coach during his three games in the Old Trafford dugout, managing to steady the ship and go unbeaten.
How he'd fare in his first permanent job was of interest to many supporters. Carrick received his opportunity with Middlesbrough, who sacked Chris Wilder with the club 22nd in the table.
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After a defeat to Preston North End in his first game, Carrick guided Middlesbrough to a five-game unbeaten run. They'd lose to Championship leaders Burnley to end that run but bounced back with a 4-1 win over Wigan Athletic on Boxing Day.
Middlesbrough now sit 11th in the Championship, two points off the playoffs. Based on form since Carrick's arrival, the Boro would be fourth in the table.
How has Carrick managed such a dramatic turnaround in two months, with a World Cup break lodged in the middle?
TikTok user @hto_mufc broke down Carrick's tactics and management style in an excellent video, which you can view below.
Under Wilder, Middlesbrough played the overlapping centre-back system the manager used to get Sheffield United promoted against all odds in 2019.
That had started to go stale, however. Failure to qualify for the playoffs in 21/22 took a lot out of the players, who only won two of their opening 11 games. Carrick decided to tweak this system.
Middlesbrough's defence becomes a back three when building out as Wolverhampton Wanderers loanee Ryan Giles bombs out the left-hand side. Tommy Smith on the right tucks in next to Dael Fry and Darragh Lenihan to keep that structure.
Giles' role in the team is vital, as shifting the opposition team's block over gives him acres of space to exploit.
It creates an attacking five, similar to Premier League leaders Arsenal when Kieran Tierney or Oleksandr Zinchenko get forward.
A frequent combo is Giles assisting Chuba Akpom, who has eight goals under Carrick. Akpom plays just off Marcus Forss, creating a 3-2-5 formation in attack.
Duncan Watmore operates in half spaces, while Isaiah Jones and Giles offer that threat from the flanks. Akpom just off Forss completes the forward line.
Could Carrick guide Middlesbrough to the Premier League playing this brand of football? Only time will tell.
Middlesbrough will get a taste of top-flight opposition when they face Brighton and Hove Albion in the FA Cup on January 7.
Featured Image Credit: hto_mufc/TikTok & Alamy
Topics: Michael Carrick
