Matt Crooks reveals his thoughts on key Middlesbrough tweak Michael Carrick has made | OneFootball

Middlesbrough utility man Matt Crooks has issued his thoughts on his move into the striker role under Michael Carrick.

Boro’s turnaround in form since Carrick’s arrival has been remarkable with several players hitting form.

One of those players has been Crooks who has found himself in unfamiliar territory, with Carrick deploying the experienced midfielder as a centre forward.

It’s not a role that’s unfamiliar to Crooks though, having played there for Accrington Stanley and Rotherham United on occasion. Having thrived as a goalscoring midfielder in recent seasons, it’s not a surprise that Carrick has opted to use the 29-year-old as a striker.

At 6ft 3, Crooks certainly has the build for a classic number nine, but that is a role he was keen to dismiss. Speaking to The Gazette, Crooks explained: “It’s not like I’m a big target man and they’re launching the ball up to me, it’s not that kind of role.

“It’s more just like playing as an attacking four rather than a big striker and Chuba [Akpom] in behind.

“It’s more of a front four and we look for openings. It is different because I’m playing further forward than I usually would be, but it’s easier when it’s a fluid four.”

It’s a role that has seemingly paid dividends for Boro. Although only four of his appearances under Carrick have been starts, Crooks has managed to register four goals and two assists – including two consecutive late winners for Boro either side of the international break against Norwich City and Luton Town.

With Cameron Archer in the squad, as well as other attacking options available to Carrick, having Crooks as a different option will add some depth into the final third that could be essential as the season wears on.

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The Verdict

Crooks has already made a significant impact with his late winners. And although his game time has been limited under Carrick, his enthusiasm is telling of a positive team set up.

Not only that, but the willingness from Crooks to learn a new role in a new system showcases the impressive man management skills of Carrick, who has now seemingly improved the fortunes of several other players.

Crooks will continue to score important goals for Boro, as he has done since his arrival from Rotherham last summer but his willingness at 29 to adapt his game is even more impressive.