LUKE Ayling lifted himself out of his sickbed to impress for Middlesbrough in Tuesday night's home victory over West Brom.

Ayling hadn't started a game since early December and was ill overnight but was called upon after Ipswich recalled George Edmundson from his Boro loan just hours before the visit of the Baggies.

And the former Leeds United right-back put in what was perhaps his best performance of the season as he helped Boro keep a clean sheet and secure a much-needed three points.

Not only was Ayling a threat going forward in the first half - creating two chances with fine deliveries - but he used his experience to manage the game in the second period when West Brom were enjoying their best spells. And he captained the side in the week that Carrick had defended his players and insisted a lack of leadership wasn't an issue in the squad.

RECOMMENDED READING:

• Middlesbrough set for transfer talks as Millwall line up Josh Coburn permanent move

• Tony Mowbray's special Middlesbrough thanks, 'at their best' claim & 'anxiety' point

• What happens next with Middlesbrough & George Edmundson after Ipswich recall

Carrick said: He was ill overnight as well so that was an extra little thing to deal with.

"But he's old enough - even though he won't like me saying that - to deal with it.

"There's a balance in terms of leadership. Some boys are quieter but lead by example and have a presence. Some shout and scream and have a bit more of an influence vocally.

"It takes a bit of everything. Listen we've won tonight so that leadership one, all of a sudden it looks like everyone's a leader, but the more we can have that personality in the group it's definitely something we look for."

Ayling wasn't the only returning player to make an impact against the Baggies, with Aidan Morris shining in midfield and showing Boro what they've been missing. The midfielder has been out for three months after suffering a knee injury while away on international duty in November.

Not only did Morris impress against the Baggies but he also helped to bring a fine display out of Hayden Hackney, who has played his best football this season alongside the summer recruit.

Carrick said: "Aidan played well. We weren't sure how long he was going to last but he got through the game which was good.

There was a lot of good performances individually with and without the ball.

"I think Dan [Barlaser] has done well when he's played to be honest. Aidan has done really well tonight. He's obviously an important player for us and has made a big impact.

"H [Hackney] was good again tonight. Terrific goal and his performance was good. They do complement each other pretty well, play off each other and have a good understanding. It's a good positive for us.

"He's been out since November so it's a fair time out. Always when you've been out that long the first 90 minutes is a big positive step for different reasons: for fitness and mentally to know you can get through it. Especially in a game like that, it was a proper game, a good test and he came through it."