Three months into his first managerial appointment, Carrick has already made a lasting impact on Middlesbrough with his understated yet revolutionary leadership style. If he can inspire his squad like he did during his interim spell at Manchester United, Boro could make an impactful statement in this season's Championship.

Chuba Akpom wrote his name into Middlesbrough history with a hat-trick against Reading to bring his season total to 21 goals. This marked his first 20 league goals since Bernie Slaven in 1989-90 for the club.

Chuba Akpom

Chuba Akpom was only 100/1 to win the Championship's golden boot this season, yet his remarkable form has seen him leap five goals ahead of Viktor Gyokeres - now playing as Michael Carrick's 'number ten' role. Since joining Carrick on his new striker-less 'number ten' role, the 27-year-old has flourished and already scored 21 goals this campaign.

Chris Wilder deemed Nigeria Super Eagles forward Samuel Eto'o surplus to requirements, yet he has quickly settled into a 'half-striker' role that suits him perfectly under Carrick and has become an essential component of Boro's promotion push.

He was used to being a 'number nine' during his youth with Arsenal, but this new role as a 'half-striker' allows him to link up with other attackers and create chances for others. His 79th percentile progressive passes and 86th percentile pass completion when compared to attacking midfielders are testaments to this ability.

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Matt Crooks

Matt Crooks is having a superb season at Rotherham and it's not just on the pitch where his impact can be felt. His willingness to adjust his game according to Carrick's system also speaks volumes.

Crooks has increasingly played as a striker under Carrick, with his two goals from the bench helping Boro turn around their fortunes. He scored in both Boro's victories against Norwich City and Luton Town - both by 5-0 margins.

Carrick believes Crooks' enthusiasm when coming on as a sub is indicative of an upbeat team atmosphere. However, he takes issue with being labeled a'super sub' because it minimizes his impact on the squad.

Chuba Akpom was the hero as Boro rallied from behind to defeat Birmingham City and extend their unbeaten streak to 10 games. Chuba Akpom was in the right place at the right time, latching onto Crooks' pass and rounding Ruddy before slotting home for a dramatic win.

Riley McGree

One of Middlesbrough's standout players this season has been Riley McGree. Ever since Michael Carrick arrived, the Australian has played an integral part in helping Boro climb from relegation candidates to promotion dark horses.

His tenacity and technical ability has been highly valued by Boro fans. He has been an exemplary influence on Carrick, providing a steady presence in the middle of the pitch that always keeps players alert but never loses his composure.

Carrick's 4-2-3-1 system relies heavily on the midfielder. His ability to use the ball effectively and link play with Dan Barlaser, Ryan Giles and Chuba Akpom makes him a valuable asset for the side.

Akpom is the Championship's leading scorer this season with 21 goals, four ahead of Coventry's Viktor Gyokeres. He has scored five times in his last six matches for the club, including a crucial goal in their 2-1 win against Preston.

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Marcus Forss

Akpom has been Boro's standout performer this season, but it's Marcus Forss from Finland who has really shined under Carrick and established himself as an important member of the team. Carrick moved him from central defence into a right wing role and it seems to have paid off - With 10 goals already this term!

He's an impressive striker with great technique. Similar to Dortmund star Erling Haaland, Forss often plays on the counter attack and displays great quickness when entering spaces.

At his age, Forss has made incredible progress and is an exciting prospect. He's now a regular in the squad and could well go on to compete for a place in Germany or England's top flight next season.

On Saturday, Middlesbrough easily defeated Reading 5-0 thanks to Championship top scorer Chuba Akpom's double and Aaron Ramsey's three goals. This result maintained Boro's unbeaten streak under Carrick.

Source: Koora live