Middlesbrough manager Michael Carrick has come to the defense of Nigerian international Kelechi Iheanacho following recent criticism from sections of the club’s fanbase. The 28-year-old striker, who joined Boro on loan from Sevilla in January, has faced scrutiny despite contributing significantly in recent matches.
Iheanacho initially struggled to adapt after his mid-season move, failing to score in his first six Championship appearances. However, the former Leicester City forward has shown marked improvement lately, registering one goal and three assists in his last three outings. His performances have been crucial as Middlesbrough push for playoff contention in England’s second tier.
The criticism peaked after Boro’s 1-0 defeat to Leeds United last Thursday, where Iheanacho was singled out by some supporters. Carrick strongly refuted the negativity, telling reporters: “To be honest, I don’t know what the mad fuss is about. He’s played in a team that has just won a number of games in a short period of time. He’s been a big part of that.”
The former Manchester United midfielder highlighted Iheanacho’s recent contributions, including a match-winning goal and two assists in the victory at Blackburn. “Perspective is important,” Carrick stressed, emphasizing the Nigerian’s value to the team.
Carrick has primarily deployed Iheanacho in a supporting striker role behind main forward Tommy Conway, a position the manager believes maximizes the Super Eagle’s strengths. “It’s a natural position for him. He can create goals, and he can score goals – he’s done that throughout his career,” Carrick explained.
The Boro boss praised Iheanacho’s football intelligence, saying: “He’s a danger; he can link up and has an eye for a pass and a through ball. His positioning in and around that area is good as well.” Carrick emphasized his attacking players have freedom to express themselves within the team’s system.
Despite the manager’s backing, Iheanacho couldn’t prevent Middlesbrough from suffering a disappointing 1-0 home defeat to Millwall on Saturday, leaving them two points outside the playoff places. The Nigerian international will hope to continue his improved form as Boro chase promotion in the Championship run-in.
