MICHAEL Carrick is sweating over the availability of striker Cameron Archer for Wednesday night's crunch Championship clash with Sheffield United.

Archer, says Carrick, took a heavy knock on his ankle in the weekend's win at Cardiff City and is a doubt for the game at Bramall Lane, where Boro are looking to close the gap on second-place Blades.

Boro are closely monitoring the Aston Villa loanee and will make a late call on his fitness. It would be a big blow for Boro if Archer is ruled out, with the striker having impressed since his January move. He scored his first goal for the club in the win at Cardiff.

"Cam took a really bad one on his ankle," said Carrick.

"He twisted it first half and it swelled up quite badly after the game. We’ll have to see how he is, but he was struggling towards the end of the game which is why we had to take him off. Fingers crossed he will be alright, but at this moment, we’re not sure.”

If Archer is ruled out, Matt Crooks is most likely to lead the line for Boro.

Carrick said: “I keep saying, I trust everyone in the squad to play and if someone misses out, there is someone else ready to come in. That’s the beauty of having good options and a good group of players.”

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Carrick also has a decision to make on Aaron Ramsey, another Aston Villa loanee, who is working his way back from December knee surgery. Ramsey travelled with the squad to Cardiff but wasn't part of the matchday 18.

Carrick said: “Aaron is a little bit closer after training a good few days with us now. We’re taking it step by step to see when is the right time to get him involved. He travelled with us at the weekend but more just so he can feel part of the group.”