Liverpool youngster Ben Doak has suffered an unfortunate injury setback, ruling him out of action for the next few weeks. The 18-year-old, who has been in fine form for Middlesbrough this season, was absent during their 3-2 defeat to Sunderland on transfer deadline day.
Doak, on loan from Liverpool, has been one of Boro’s standout performers in the Championship. He has made 24 league appearances, contributing three goals and seven assists. However, manager Michael Carrick confirmed that the talented winger picked up a thigh injury during training last week, which will sideline him for a while.
“He just felt his thigh during the week in training. We’ll see how it is. It won’t be a few days, it will be longer. Probably weeks, not ages but yeah, it won’t be days,” Carrick revealed to Teesside Live.
Monday’s match against Sunderland was the first time Doak had missed a game for Middlesbrough since November. Prior to this setback, he had started 15 of their last 16 matches, underlining his importance to the team. His absence is a big blow for Boro, who are currently seventh in the Championship, 17 points adrift of the automatic promotion spots.
The Scotsman’s performances have not gone unnoticed, as Premier League clubs Crystal Palace, Ipswich Town, and Bournemouth reportedly showed interest in signing him during the January transfer window. However, the Scottish winger remained at Middlesbrough to continue his development under Carrick.
With his return date uncertain, Doak will be hoping for a swift recovery to continue his impressive loan spell. His creativity and attacking flair have been key for Middlesbrough, and the club will be eager to have him back as they push for a spot in the playoff positions.
