Middlesbrough competition for places benefit exemplified in a good sign for Burnley and Leeds

Middlesbrough's competition for places can be a huge factor for them heading into two crucial away games, with boss Michael Carrick highlighting a recent example of its benefit.

Having won four of their last five games, Boro's squad depth has been tested in recent weeks thanks to injury and illness and, one minor blip against Blackburn Rovers aside, they've come through the challenge well. They head to Burnley on Friday evening fifth in the table and full of confidence after scoring 18 goals in the last five games.

With a trip to Leeds United quickly following Turf Moor, it's two huge games for Boro as they look to build on recent form and make a promotion statement against their rivals. Most recently, Boro beat Hull City 3-1 at the Riverside in a game in which Hayden Hackney returned from injury ahead of schedule, while Finn Azaz and Delano Burgzorg got back from their sickbed to return to action despite not being 100%.

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All three gave solid performances in the victory, with Carrick noting after that Hull's style required Boro's players to run a lot more than they might ordinarily do. For Carrick, the efforts of those three players in particular, at less than 100%, exemplified the determination and desire to be involved which is driving up standards on Teesside right now - with competition for places keeping every player on their toes.

“The boys all want to be part of it right now and playing," Carrick noted after the Hull City win. "The majority of the boys have all played a significant part in things over the last few games. There are some boys who want more football, and I totally understand that. But it feels like the squad is really playing its part, and this week probably proves that.”

In terms of opposition, Burnley and Leeds represent a step-up on paper as far as recent opposition is concerned. Away to two sides above them in the Championship table currently, Boro's true promotion credibility is likely to be tested a lot more in the next two challenging, but also exciting, games.