MICHAEL Carrick admits he'd understand if Anfernee Dijksteel had developed something of a dislike for the Middlesbrough head coach in recent months, such has been the lack of opportunities for the defender.
But instead of letting any team selection frustration show, Dijksteel's attitude has been terrific and the full-back has trained superbly well, says the boss.
It isn't that Dijksteel hasn't impressed Carrick since the head coach's October arrival, he's just been the unfortunate victim of the consistency of Tommy Smith, who has established himself as first choice right-back.
But with Smith having been forced off after suffering an injury to his ribs in Wednesday night's victory over Hull City, Dijksteel was handed his opportunity - and grasped it impressively. He was superb in the second half and, alongside fellow substitute Isaiah Jones, inspired to fight back from behind to win 3-1.
READ MORE:
- Isaiah Jones 'back to himself' with Michael Carrick 'excited to see what's possible'
- Michael Carrick provides worrying Middlesbrough injury update after two more setbacks
"He was fantastic," said Carrick.
"I'm really, really genuinely pleased for Anf because he's had a tough run and hasn't had a lot of game-time because Tommy has played so well.
"He's deserved to play because he's trained well and been there. He's probably not been my biggest fan at times and rightly so, he hasn't showed it mind, he's every right to have a bit of dislike towards me because I haven't picked him, and he's probably deserved to be picked for how he's trained and his attitude.
"I wasn't delighted with the injury, obviously, but I was delighted to see him back on the pitch and playing so well and making a big impact, him and Izzy."
It's not yet clear how serious Smith's injury is and how long he faces on the sidelines, but Dijksteel could now have a major role to play in the promotion run-in.
Carrick said: "Again, I've spoken about the squad and how much faith and belief we have in them. The boys have been so consistent and played so well, it hasn't been easy to get everyone in.
"Now is the time with injuries racking up, the time of the season when things are decided, everyone is going to play their part and they played a massive part tonight."
Comments: Our rules
We want our comments to be a lively and valuable part of our community - a place where readers can debate and engage with the most important local issues. The ability to comment on our stories is a privilege, not a right, however, and that privilege may be withdrawn if it is abused or misused.
Please report any comments that break our rules.
Read the rules here