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The Guardian - UK
The Guardian - UK
Sport
Louise Taylor

Michael Carrick urges Middlesbrough to evoke spirit of 2004 against Chelsea

Gareth Southgate (left) lifts the trophy after Middlesbrough won the Carling Cup in 2004.
Gareth Southgate (left) lifts the trophy after Middlesbrough won the Carling Cup in 2004. Photograph: Getty Images

Michael Carrick has challenged Middlesbrough’s players to recapture the spirit of 2004 as they prepare to face Chelsea at the Riverside in the Carabao Cup semi-final first leg on Tuesday night.

Middlesbrough’s manager hopes his young Championship team can ultimately emulate Juninho, Boudewijn Zenden, Joseph Desire-Job, Gareth Southgate and the rest of the club’s famous League Cup-winning side by repeating that feat. Carrick knows it will not be easy for his talented, yet inconsistent players, especially against Mauricio Pochettino’s fast-improving Chelsea.

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