🎧 Division over Carrick means it's the right call

Michael Carrick's sacking by Middlesbrough has split opinions.

The 43-year-old was heavily criticised for tactical inflexibility and failing to guide Boro into a play-off place in a low-scoring season, but also drew sympathy for losing key players such as Emmanuel Latte Lath and Ben Doak.

While arguments could be made either way, journalist Craig Johns says the lack of unity demonstrates why he feels the decision to sack Carrick was the right one.

"I can understand why there is division in the fan base and I think that in itself suggests it probably is the right decision," Gazette reporter Johns told BBC Radio Tees.

"What Boro need right now is everyone united, everyone together, everyone on the same front. Ultimately going into the new season with a bit of hope.

"If Michael Carrick was still in charge, you very much get the impression that while half of the fan base would have been happy with that, half wouldn't."

As for the timing of Carrick's departure, Johns does not believe it will affect Boro's work in the transfer window.

"We know Boro did have a plan going into the summer, they've already identified five positions they feel need to be strengthened and the targets they would be interested in," he added.

"I can't imagine that will change much with a different manager."

Listen to the full discussion and more on BBC Sounds.