Doak made a massive impact after joining Boro on a season-long loan from Liverpool last summer, with his performances in the first half of the campaign seeing him hailed as one of the most exciting prospects in the whole of the Football League.
The 19-year-old scored three goals and claimed seven assists in his 24 Championship appearances, but his season was prematurely ended by a thigh in late January that required surgery and forced his early return to Merseyside.
When Doak played his final game in a Boro shirt, Carrick’s side were sitting inside the play-off positions. However, in the 16 games they have played without the Scotland international, the Teessiders have claimed just six victories as they have slid out of the play-off places.
Losing Doak was clearly a massive blow, but Carrick insists it is not an excuse for the position Boro find themselves in ahead of the final game of the regular Championship season at Coventry City this weekend.
“It would have been nice for it (Doak’s loan move) to have been a little bit longer, but that’s football,” said Carrick. “We’ve had a few injuries through the season and players have come into the team at different stages.
“That’s just something you’ve got to deal with. I just think that’s the flow of seasons.
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“We’ve got good players and there is still time for players to make a big impact – that’s just how it is. Players in various positions have had to come in and out, but that’s just part of having a squad.”
Doak’s long-term future is likely to be the subject of considerable speculation over the summer, with Liverpool likely to face a decision over the teenager.
The right winger has been touted as a possible long-term successor to Mo Salah, but the Egyptian’s decision to sign a new contract at Anfield means Doak’s opportunities are likely to be limited if he remains with Liverpool next season.
He could be sent back out on loan – with Boro sure to be one of the interested parties – or if offers arrive once the transfer window reopens, Liverpool could decide to cash in on a player who would almost certainly command a transfer fee of more than £30m.
“It was a loan move that proved successful in both ways,” said Carrick. “Obviously, it’s unfortunate in the way it got cut short, particularly at the time it did and for how long.
“Ben had a big impact for us, and I think he’s benefited from being with us personally as well, which also helps Liverpool. I think everything felt the benefit of that move.”
