MICHAEL Carrick admits he's not surprised by Millwall's desire to sign Josh Coburn on a permanent deal this month.

Coburn joined the Lions on a season-long loan move late in the summer window but has so far been limited to just seven appearances after suffering two injury setbacks.

But Millwall have still seen enough to want to sign Coburn on a permanent basis. Discussions between Boro and the Lions are understood to be ongoing.

Boro weren't actively looking to sell Coburn this month but will sanction the move if a deal can be agreed.

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Neil Harris prioritised the signing of Millwall in the summer but was replaced in the dugout by Alex Neil last month. Coburn has not yet played for his new boss but Neil sees the 22-year-old as a key part of his future plans.

Quizzed on Coburn's situation and Millwall's interest, Boro boss Michael Carrick said on Thursday: "I wouldn't be surprised for them to think like that.

"Josh is a good player. He's been unfortunate with injuries this season. He's had a bit of a stop start spell. At this stage I can't really give you any more on that one."

Asked whether a deal this month could be the right time for all parties, Carrick added: "That's a decision for us to make if it gets to that. We'll have to wait and see."

Coburn is currently sidelined with a broken metatarsal.