CARR CHASE

Boro boss tells players to enjoy buzz of promotion pursuit

- IAN WINROW

MICHAEL CARRICK has urged his Middlesbrough side to embrace the thrill of the chase as they bid to force their way back into the promotion race.

Boro's campaign appeared to be in freefall when a run of seven defeats in eight games saw them drop out of the play-off places.

But back-to-back wins have moved them to within two points of sixth spot - and victory at Swansea today could see them back in the top six.

Carrick says the high stakes can inspire the club's efforts to secure a Premier League return.

"There is that natural spark when you get to a certain stage and it’s all to play for, you know what’s at stake," Carrick said.

"So without doubt, there's that side where we all have a job to do and we have to be in the right place to be able to do that.