MARCUS Forss could be set to lead the line for Middlesbrough as Michael Carrick reiterated his backing for the Finnish international and said: "I'm sure he'll be able to have a big impact, he can definitely play centre-forward for us".

After a lengthy spell on the sidelines through injury, Forss announced his return with a goal from the bench against Millwall last weekend.

The 24-year-old was signed as a centre-forward but has played almost all of his football as a right winger since Carrick's appointment.

But with Emmanuel Latte Lath out injured and Josh Coburn managing a niggling groin problem, Boro are short of strikers.

Morgan Rogers, who remains of interest to Aston Villa, Matt Crooks and Sam Greenwood have all played there - but Forss could well be the most natural fit.

“He’s got an eye for goal Marcus, he’s a really good finisher," said Carrick ahead of today's game against Rotherham.

"I think that shows because he hits the target a lot when he gets in. He can offer us a lot both up top or from the right.

"He can find areas to cause problems for teams whichever position he plays and he’s ultimately a goalscorer - he sniffs out the chances and he can put them away.

"I was delighted for Marcus (at Millwall). He’s worked hard after being out for a long period of time and he's looking sharp and strong.

"I’m sure he’ll be able to have a big impact for us. He can definitely play centre forward for us.

"That’s one of the options we have got for that position. We have a few options for that position, with Sam and Morgan playing the role last week. Crooksy can play up top as well.

"We’ve got good options that we can choose from depending on who we’re playing, which players we have available and their connections."

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As much as Latte Lath and Coburn are obviously both a big miss, the options Carrick has at his disposal and the fluidity of the forward line makes it difficult for the opposition to know what to expect from Boro.

"I hope that's the case," said Carrick.

"I think the boys are all different, they all have different attributes and strengths. And it all depends on different situations.

"The fact we're able to tweak it in games and flip positions and the fact the players understand different positions, we see that as a bonus. It's just trying to get the best out of the players as much as we can.

"On the flip side, it's not always easy. Only certain players can deal with that. It's different surroundings on the pitch, it's not always easy to flip quite quick. Fortunately we have players at the top end who are able to do that."