LUKE Ayling's knee injury isn't serious and the Middlesbrough defender is expected to return to action in the next week.

Ayling missed Saturday's 3-3 draw with Plymouth but could be in contention to return against Sheffield Wednesday on Boxing Day or Burnley next Sunday.

Seny Dieng was also absent from the squad for the game at Home Park, with Carrick saying the keeper missed out with a minor injury.

Dieng was dropped and replaced by Sol Brynn last week, so Tom Glover replaced the Senegal international on the bench at Plymouth.

“Seny shouldn’t be out too long," said Carrick.

"He just picked up a bit of a niggle. It’s nothing major, so he shouldn’t be too long. Luke shouldn’t be too long either. A few days, maybe a week or so, but not too long."

Middlesbrough were backed by a brilliant away following at Home Park, who took on the mammoth 750-mile round trip just four days before Christmas.

Carrick said: “It’s fantastic to see, and a huge thank you from me for the effort and the time and everything else they’ve put in to get here. It’s not an easy weekend to be travelling regardless, so to come this far is incredible.

"I’m glad they’ve seen some goals and entertainment. I wish they had seen us getting three points. But a massive thank you and most importantly of all, safe journey home.”