Carrick doesn't understand Kelechi Iheanacho Middlesbrough criticism

Iheanacho was ineffective against Leeds and was booed off by some supporters after Carrick's decision to replace the Sevilla loanee at the midway point of the second half was initially met by ironic cheers.

After the game, Carrick called on fans to support the 28-year-old and has now said he doesn't understand why the former Leicester City and Manchester City attacker is on the receiving end of so much criticism.

Iheanacho has underwhelmed since joining on deadline day, but has still managed to hold down a place in Carrick's side, starting the last five and eight of 11 games since his arrival.

He scored the crucial equaliser against Oxford and then had a hand in both goals at Blackburn before his disappointing display against Leeds.

And Carrick said: "I don't know what the mad fuss is about to be honest.

"He's played in a team that has just won a number of games in a short period of time.

"He's been a big part of that. He made two goals at Blackburn, scored in the one before that, a massive goal for us at the time. Perspective is important."

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Iheanacho arrived after the exit of Emmanuel Latte Lath but has played almost all of his football as a No.10, with Tommy Conway nailing down the starting spot up-front.

“It’s a natural position for him," said Carrick of Iheanacho in the deeper attacking role.

"He can create goals, and he can score goals - he’s done that throughout his career.

"He’s a danger, he can link-up and has an eye for a pass and a through ball. His positioning in and around that area is good as well.

"I’ve said it for quite some time anyway, front players are quite fluid anyway in the way the link up. We’re not quite so rigid, especially in those attacking areas. The players have the freedom to go and express themselves."

Carrick doesn't believe Iheanacho will be affected by the reaction of some supporters after his withdrawal.

“I think the boys are in a good place," he said.

"That wasn’t an easy game - it’s pretty much as tough as you get in this league. The players are right at the top. Again, perspective is important. We’re coming from a good place, with good momentum, so everything is positive from where we are."