THE fact there's been a sense of disappointment at Middlesbrough after a home draw with in-form Stoke this week shows just how far the side have come this season, says Michael Carrick.

Boro dropped points for the first time at home since Bonfire Night in Tuesday's 1-1 draw with the Potters, with Sheffield United taking advantage 24 hours later when they won at Sunderland to open the gap to third place to six points.

Despite that "setback", Carrick says Boro still appreciate they're in a "great position" and the mood around Rockliffe has still been extremely positive this week as the players prepare for the visit of Preston on Saturday.

Carrick said: “It shows where we’re at really in terms of there being that sense of disappointment. It’s a credit to the boys the run that we’ve had and the position we’re in to see that as a bit of a setback because we want to win every game.

"But it’s a great position to be in. We know we can play a little bit better, but that’s football. You can’t always be flowing at your total best. But the boys have been fine the last couple of days, a good mood in training, and we’re looking forward to the game on Saturday.

"We’re fine and nothing has changed off the back of Tuesday. I still believe in the players because we don’t get carried away with the wins and we don’t get too down, certainly not after drawing against a very good team. We just look forward to the next game now."

Boro again look likely to be without Matt Crooks, who has been absent the last three games due to injury.

Carrick said: "Hopefully he's going to train. It's the same message as the other day, we'll have to wait and see."