Carrick Acknowledges Morris’s Absence as Setback for Middlesbrough

Middlesbrough manager Michael Carrick has acknowledged that the team will be without midfielder Aidan Morris for “a number of weeks,” describing his absence as a setback. The 23-year-old USA international sustained a twisted knee injury during training with his national team, prior to their Concacaf Nations League quarter-final match against Jamaica. Morris has participated in every one of the 21 matches for both his club and national team since the current season began. Before this, he had made 22 appearances for his former club, Columbus Crew, between February and June. Carrick has granted Morris permission to stay in the United States before rejoining the Middlesbrough squad next week. “We’ve given him an extra little bit of time off because it’s the right thing to do – he’s played a lot of football,” Carrick stated ahead of his team’s Championship fixture against Oxford United on Saturday. He further added, “He’ll be back with us next week. It’s a blow, it’s disappointing, but it’s part of the game and hopefully he won’t be too long. He’ll come back strong, fit and fresh.” Regarding the condition of Morris’ midfield-partner, Hayden Hackney, who is recovering from an ankle issue, Carrick mentioned he would “have to wait and see.” “We’re hopeful, we’re not giving up on him,” Carrick commented, referring to the upcoming Saturday match. Left-back Lukas Engel and centre-back Rav van den Berg have recommenced light training following their injuries; however, they are still unavailable, having missed 12 and three matches, respectively.