In-form Chuba Akpom has scored in Michael Carrick’s first two games in charge but it isn’t just the striker’s goals that have pleased the new Middlesbrough head coach.

Carrick used Akpom as a No.10 at Preston and Hull City and the surprise tactical switch is looking like a masterstroke, with the former Arsenal man shining in the crucial midweek win at the KCOM Stadium.

Akpom’s contract is due to expire at the end of this season but Boro have the option of extending the deal by 12 months, and Carrick has revealed that he’s already had contract discussions with club chiefs, not just about Akpom but others who are approaching the end of their current deals. As things stand, contracts of Hayden Hackney, Duncan Watmore, Jonny Howson, Tommy Smith and Darnell Fisher are up at the end of the campaign.

“We’ve talked already, it’s only natural, you need to have a plan,” said Carrick, when quizzed on contracts and specifically Akpom.

“It’s very early but you get a quick feeling. That’s up to me and the club to plan for, the more people play well, the easier it is.”

Akpom’s resurgence has been one of the stories of the season on Teesside. The striker looked destined for the exit door in the summer having spent last term on loan with PAOK Salonica.

But he returned to Rockliffe in the summer and impressed then-boss Chris Wilder, and has done the same with new head coach Carrick, quickly establishing himself as a key man for new-look Boro.

“Chuba’s had a very good week, playing in a slightly different role than what he’s been used to in the past,” said Carrick.

“He’s taken to it very well, so really pleased for him. As a striker, or someone playing higher up the pitch, goals always help. We won’t judge him just on the goals though, because I think his overall performances have been very good.

 “I was fully aware of him [before joining]. It’s like a lot of the players, you look and think how can we play to their strengths and how can we use them to bring the best out of them. At the moment, he’s hit the ground running and taken to it really well, so it’s a good sign for us."

READ MORE: Reinventing Chuba Akpom has been Michael Carrick's early masterstroke as Middlesbrough boss