Michael Carrick is expecting a tough test as Boro travel to QPR in the Sky Bet Championship.
Ahead of our meeting at Loftus Road, here is some of the key quotes from Carrick's pre-match press conference.
ON THE CHALLENGE OF QPR
They have had two similar games against teams that are right at the top of the league. For us going into any game this season, we know that any team is capable. They are well-organised and particularly well-coached. It is always a tough game down there; it was last year and form in this league is what is in front of us what matters. They come into the game off the back of good results I’m sure they got a big boost from that.
ON THE LEAGUE SO FAR
We have to respect that it’s a tough league with good teams we can’t take anything for granted, it’s like the next game we have to go and prepare and perform we have to do enough to win the game. We need to take confidence and belief in what we have done. It wasn’t long ago we beat Sheffield United and played really well at Norwich. I think it’s being stable and calm one result or one-half doesn’t tell the whole story, especially for the players and the staff. There is a long road ahead, the last international break is coming up this week. Then the winter run kicks in, and the league starts to take real shape after that we will be prepared for that.
ON THE TRAVELLING SUPPORT
The supporters amaze me, in particular away games how they travel for us and support us, whatever day of the week or whatever time the kick-off is. We greatly appreciate that. In that kind of stadium where it is tight and compact, there is a lot of atmosphere within the stadium so for us to have the travelling support it makes a big difference.
ON THE SQUAD
It’s the beauty of having a good squad. Unfortunately, when I name the team not everyone can play but that is being part of a good squad that we feel we are capable of having a level of success. That’s the challenge for everyone, to perform with each opportunity and hopefully, that will keep striving and pushing everyone to be a little bit better.
ON THE SKIPPER
Jonny is the club captain and has great experience. He has got that element of composure, and that experience is priceless, and he has bags of that. I thought he did fantastic when he came on in a difficult situation, shows what he brings to the squad.