Middlesbrough manager Michael Carrick has expressed a laid-back attitude towards Ben Doak's situation as the January transfer window looms, with parent club Liverpool holding a recall option for the youngster.
Doak has been a crucial force in Boro’s push for promotion in the Championship, with his dazzling performances making him indispensable to the team’s ambitions, and they're keen to retain him until the end of the season.
The player himself seems pleased at Boro, enhancing the chances he might stay put. Aware that transfers can bring unpredictable changes, Boro’s staff are preparing to tackle any outcome come January, reports Teesside Live.
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When quizzed regarding the teenager's recall clause, Carrick said: "I'm quite calm about it to be honest. No drama. I think we are calm. There are loads of things, ifs and buts and changes in football - that's transfer windows. I've said it to you enough times, but I'm really calm about it to be honest.
"I'm happy with the way that things are going and we'll take what comes next and deal with it. Ben's happy, we're happy, he's in a good place. You can see in his body language and demeanor he's happy. He keeps working hard and he's enjoying it here and it's been effective for us. As long as that carries on then we're all good."
It seems likely that Boro will retain Doak until season's end, per the original summer plan. With Arne Slot's squad firing on all cylinders at the top of the Premier League, a call back to Anfield seems off the cards.
Carrick shed some light on why Boro is the best place for Doak right now: "It's not ifs and buts and comparisons, it's just that he's in a good place here, he's doing well for us. He's had a big impact since he's been here for sure and we've enjoyed having him here. He's a great character, wants to do well and improve. So far it's been a really good fit for all of us."