Middlesbrough manager Michael Carrick says he’s happy with Chuba Akpom and teammates after the emphatic 4-0 win over Preston North End on Saturday.

Akpom scored one and assisted another goal as the Riverside outfits continued their impressive form under Michael Carrick.

Akpom finished off an excellent team move to put the hosts ahead in the 22nd minute for his 25th goal of the season as Boro took control in the first half.

The former Arsenal star then assisted Camron Archer for Boro’s goal before Marcus Forss capped the display by adding a fourth deep in stoppage time.

Akpom also created two chances, made one key pass and completed 95% of his passes against Preston North End.

Middlesbrough have now won 16 of 22 league games since Carrick took over from Chris Wilder on 24 October, with Akpom playing significant role.

“There was a really good atmosphere in the stadium for the start of the game which I know helped the boysimmensely.

“I thought the lads started the game terrifically, got into our stride, played some good football, pressed well, won the ball back quick and created the momentum and built some pressure really early on in the game.

“Probably the game after that was in our hands and the goals looked dangerous – there were some really terrific goals.

“The goals in the second half were pleasing, we got as many boys as we could on the pitch because they deserved to be on the pitch, and all round it was a really good day,” Michael Carrick said after the game.