Middlesbrough head coach Michael Carrick has backed Kelechi Iheanacho to hit top form after the Nigerian striker finally ended his 525-day goal drought in English football.
Iheanacho played a crucial role in Boro’s 2-1 comeback victory over Oxford United at the Riverside Stadium, scoring a vital equalizer early in the second half.
The Nigerian striker, who joined Boro on loan from Sevilla, had gone seven matches without scoring but delivered when his team needed him most.
Head coach Michael Carrick expressed his delight with Iheanacho’s resilience and believes this goal could spark a strong run of form.
“I thought the boys stood by each other really well, supported each other really well, and Kelz [Iheanacho] got his reward,” Carrick said. “It’s a really important goal for us, and I’m sure that’ll kickstart him as well.”
READ MORE:Iheanacho ends 525-day goal drought as Middlesbrough fight back to beat Oxford
Iheanacho came close in the first half when his shot rattled the crossbar, but he didn’t let frustration take over.
Just three minutes into the second half, he capitalized on a pinpoint low cross from Samuel Iling-Junior, finishing clinically inside the box to bring Boro level.
Carrick Confident in Iheanacho’s Ability
Despite Iheanacho’s recent struggles, Carrick never doubted the Nigerian’s ability to find the net.
“He’s a good player. He’s proven, experienced, and I wasn’t concerned—I knew he would score,” Carrick said.
“Hopefully, he has got more in him; I am sure he has. It was a massive goal for us.”
Middlesbrough sealed the comeback win in the 80th minute when Neto Borges flicked in a stunning backheel finish from another Iling-Junior assist.
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The result pushed Boro up to seventh in the Championship standings, keeping them firmly in the playoff race.
Momentum for the Playoff Push
Carrick emphasized the importance of staying positive through difficult spells, a message that resonated with Iheanacho.
“The major thing I’ve learned over the years is to not get carried away when you’re having a sticky patch because the only way you can get out of it is to be positive,” Carrick explained.
With his first Middlesbrough goal now in the books, Iheanacho will look to build on this momentum as Boro continue their push for a Championship playoff spot.
