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Ben Doak Liverpool recall talk continues - as Michael Carrick explains Boro's stance
MICHAEL CARRICK insists he is “unconcerned” at the ongoing suggestions that Liverpool could look to trigger a recall clause in Ben Doak’s loan deal in January.
Doak signed a season-long agreement when he moved to Middlesbrough from Merseyside in the summer, but the deal contains a clause that enables Liverpool to recall the winger to Anfield in the January window if they decide they want to use him themselves in the second half of the season.
Liverpool boss Arne Slot has previously suggested such a move is unlikely, and senior figures within the Anfield hierarchy are known to be delighted with the way in which Doak has excelled in the Championship over the course of the last three months.
However, that has not stopped stories emerging suggesting the 19-year-old could be removed from Middlesbrough when the transfer window reopens at the turn of the year. Carrick concedes such an eventuality cannot be ruled out, but insists it would be a waste of his time to worry about Doak’s future.
“It’s fine, I’m quite calm about it to be honest,” said the Boro boss, ahead of this evening’s Championship game at Leeds United. “There’s no drama, I think we are calm.
“Ben’s happy, we’re happy, he’s in a good place. You can see in his body language and demeanour, he’s happy. He keeps working hard, he’s enjoying it here and it’s been effective for us. As long as that carries on, then we’re all good.”
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Carrick and the rest of Boro’s coaching staff are in regular dialogue with senior officials at Liverpool, and Doak also has regular contact with his parent club.
If the Scotland international was to return to Anfield for the second half of the season, the presence of the likes of Mo Salah, Luis Diaz, Diogo Jota and Harvey Elliott would almost certainly mean his first-team opportunities would be extremely limited, something that would hardly be beneficial to his development.
“It’s not a case of ifs and buts and comparisons, it’s just that he’s in a good place here, he’s doing well for us,” said Carrick. “He’s had a big impact since he’s been here for sure, and we’ve enjoyed having him here. He’s a great character, wants to do well and improve, and so far, it’s been a really good fit for all of us.
“I’ve said it to you enough times, but I’m really calm about it, to be honest. I’m happy with the way things are going, and we’ll take what comes next and deal with it.”
