FOR Matt Crooks, one high profile Middlesbrough exit in the summer presented the ultimate challenge but a major opportunity.

For all Michael Carrick has seen Crooks as a hugely important figure on and off the pitch since his arrival as head coach last October, in the second half of last season the former Rotherham man was more often a substitute than a starter for Boro.

Sixteen of Crooks' 18 league starts last season came prior to February. He started the season playing in midfield under Chris Wilder, moved up front when Carrick took charge but the January arrival of Cameron Archer made it hard for Crooks to nail down a place in the Boro starting XI.

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But the summer exit of last season's star man Chuba Akpom left a void at No.10. Summer signings Sam Greenwood and Morgan Rogers are at home in that role, while Riley McGree can also play central. But it's Crooks who's established himself as first choice in that position as things stand and the 29-year-old is already well on his way to matching last season's tally for starts having been in from off in 12 of Boro's 16 league games.

Crooks already has a couple of league goals to his name and one in the Carabao Cup and only six Championship players have more assists than his four.

“He’s a big player for us," said Carrick of the utility man who brought up 100 Boro appearances at Exeter last month.

And when Carrick talks about the importance of Crooks, he means both in and out of possession and on and off the pitch

The head coach says: "He's an important player and a really big part of the squad. His presence, his experience and how he is as a person is so important to the group. His character and his attitude, he plays such a big part around the place. His performances of late have been fantastic and his impact on the games have been big."

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Crooks has also helped Isaiah Jones back into form. The pair, who played together on the right under Wilder, have a good relationship and understanding on the pitch.

"Crooksy has scored some goals, created some goals and his general play has been fantastic," said Carrick.

"He’s linked up with Izzy really well down that right-hand side and he gives us so much out-of-possession with his work rate and his presence. I’m delighted for him to see him playing so well."