Michael Carrick confirms Liverpool deadline has passed as Reds make transfer decision on winger
Middlesbrough boss Michael Carrick has expressed his pleasure at Liverpool loanee Ben Doak remaining at the Riverside for the remaining months of the 2024/25 season
Michael Carrick has revealed that Ben Doak will remain at Middlesbrough for the rest of the season, after the Liverpool loanee was linked to a January transfer.
The Boro boss declared that the Reds' opportunity to make use of a recall clause in Doak's loan deal has now passed. Liverpool are said to have rejected bids from Ipswich Town and Crystal Palace already for the Scotland international, while Bournemouth had also been touted as a potential suitor.
The 19-year-old joined Middlesbrough on loan in the summer and has impressed during his time at the Riverside. Doak has scored three goals and provided six assists in his first full season of senior football.
Carrick is pleased to have retained Doak's services for the coming months. The former Manchester United midfielder talked up his charge's abilities after netting against West Bromwich Albion on Tuesday.
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"Obviously we’re really happy he’s here, but genuinely, it hasn’t been a big thing for us. He showed again tonight how dangerous he is and then scored a terrific goal. It’s something he can do a little bit more, come inside onto his left foot, because it’s something he’s good at as well. I’m delighted with it.
"He’s got that weapon and unique threat. The way he plays the game, everyone has their own strengths, but the way Ben plays the game, he’s always in the game and always a threat. We’re obviously happy he’ll be staying here. He’s a big role and he’ll continue to do that for the time that he’s here."
Speaking earlier in the season, Doak revealed Arne Slot played a role in selecting where he went on loan. The Dutchman gave his approval to the opportunity to work under Carrick.
"I went on the pre-season tour with Liverpool, had a good time, got some minutes for the first time since my injury last year and I think I made a good impression before the injury," Doak said.
“I had a few clubs with eyes on me. The club helped me pick as well and I watched a few Boro games and I knew a few of the lads here. I didn’t think there was a much better place than the Boro, especially to be honest the amount they have the ball on the right-hand side and the team just naturally caters to my game.
“The club (Liverpool) helps you narrow it down, then you speak to the gaffers and then just pick the team that takes your fancy and Arne Slot obviously approved of the choice. He said Michael’s team play really good football, he’s got the team playing really well.”
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