Middlesbrough manager Michael Carrick has admitted he is having to “cover all bases” when assessing targets ahead of the summer transfer window.

With Boro expected to be involved in the playoffs, there is a chance of promotion, and Carrick claims that shortlists are being drawn up just in case the Teessiders are in the Premier League next season:

“I think you’ve got to cover all bases. That doesn’t necessarily mean two completely different lists, but we’ve got to plan for all eventualities. That’s not assuming we will be in the Premier League because we’re not blase about that or getting carried away with anything.”

“But, as a club, we’ve got the responsibility to plan with all different scenarios, so of course we have considered that one. But we’re not getting carried away from the situation we’re in right now.”

It’s a sensible precaution. While promotion is looking less certain than it was a few weeks ago, you don’t want to be caught on the hop if the club do make it back into the top flight.

The type of signings that can be brought in if you are in the Premier League are very different to the ones that can be snapped up if Boro remain in the Championship. There is a huge gap in terms of the transfer fees and the wages that the club can afford so being aware of the options available is important.

Middlesbrough fans will also be glad to hear that Carrick is planning ahead with next campaign in mind. The Manchester United legend has been linked with the West Ham job in recent weeks but he seems very much committed to his current team.