Michael Carrick: Hard to class missing out on play-offs as Middlesbrough failure

Boro finished fourth in Carrick’s first season two years ago, only to lose to Coventry in the play-off semi-finals.

Last year, they were eighth and four points adrift. Now they are one of six sides still competing for the last two play-off places.

The Boro boss is preferring to focus on three seasons of consistent work in a notoriously competitive division.

“History shows that over the last 15 years, it’s difficult to get in the play-offs,” he said. “We’ve done it three times.

“That is the challenge we face. It’s tough to be there. We were close; we’ve been stable and consistent.

“Over the last two years, one was in, one we just missed and now we’re still in with a big chance of getting in there.”