Not an easy decision, but now Boro can make a fresh start with renewed hope

GIBSON CONCLUDED CHANGE OF DIRECTION WAS NEEDED

- By CRAIG JOHNS

IT'S never nice to see anyone lose their job.

Despite what the thoughts or feel-ings might be on Michael Carrick's ability or suitability to have continued in the role as Middlesbrough head coach, I'd like to think most would agree he's a decent bloke, first and foremost.

Of the three managers I've had the privilege of working with in my time at The Gazette Carrick may have been the least media-friendly - but be was cordial throughout.

It's well known how highly the regard for him is for many at the club, and I can’t imagine this has been an easy decision for Steve Gibson to have made.

In terms of the football decision that has been taken, it’s tough right now to offer too much insight.

That will hopefully come in time and we'll start to learn more about why the decision has been made, and what the future direction will be.

Is it the right decision or not? That's hard to answer without knowing the reason why, at this stage.

The noise around the club at the end of the season, as the review started, was that the preference was for Carrick to stay. He said after Coventry he wanted to stay too.

There were good times under Carrick.