Middlesbrough were not really looking for a new right-winger when Doak became available at the end of the summer transfer window, but the Teessiders moved quickly to land the Liverpool loanee, who subsequently became one of the best players in the Championship in the first half of the season.
A new left-sided attacker was not really a priority in January, but once it became clear that Aston Villa were looking to recall Iling-Junior from a loan spell at Bologna in order to send him to the Championship, Boro’s recruitment team swung into operation.
The 21-year-old made his Boro debut as a second-half substitute in the 3-2 defeat to Sunderland at the start of this month, with Carrick delighted to have him on board for the remainder of the campaign.
“I think it’s similar (to the decision to sign Doak),” said the Boro boss, ahead of this evening’s Championship game at Sheffield United. “There are different ways and reasons for using the loan system.
“We’ve spoken previously about what we feel might be right and what’s not. Certain opportunities come along that just fit, and you feel you have to take them.
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“For Sammy too, I think it’s a really good fit. He was desperate to come and play for us and take the next step in his career.
“For us to have him is fantastic – he was playing Champions League and doing very well just two or three weeks ago. So, to have him here around the group is a great boost for us.”
Iling-Junior can fill a number of positions, with his versatility another major attraction that persuaded Boro to approach Aston Villa last month.
The England Under-21 international has spent most of his career playing as a left-winger, which was the position he filled when he left the bench against Sunderland.
However, he has also played as a left-back and left wing-back, as well as lining up on the right flank.
“He’s so versatile, and for someone so young, he’s had an incredible experience with the clubs he’s been at and the type of games he’s played,” said Carrick. “Then you consider his positional capabilities – he can do anything from left-back to right wing and left wing with the same quality and without being fazed. It’s a hell of a skill and attribute to be able to do that, and highlights his quality.
“But he’s an attacking player. He can go both ways – off his left and off his right – he wants to commit and wants to be positive.
“He’s a really exciting player with a really good head on his shoulders, so switched on and so stable. His attitude has been top-class and he’s looking forward to coming here and finishing the season with us.”