WHEN it comes to Finn Azaz, Michael Carrick has noticed one major change this season - opposition teams have started to make a "big effort" to try and stop him.
And that, believes Boro's boss, speaks volumes.
Not that too many sides have been successful in containing the former Aston Villa forward, for no player in the Championship has more goal involvements this season than Boro's No.20.
Azaz has scored or assisted more than a third of Boro's Championship goals this season.
Given his form and eye-catching numbers, it came as little surprise to see Crystal Palace linked with the 24-year-old last week.
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Azaz has only been a Boro player for just over a year but Carrick has already seen the playmaker take big forward strides.
And despite scoring 10 goals and creating 11 more in the league this season, Boro's boss thinks Azaz will be slightly frustrated those tallies aren't even higher.
“We’ve seen what he’s capable of this season and what he can go on to achieve," said Carrick.
"The amount he’s produced this season is really impressive. He’s brought variety into his play and has played across different roles as well.
"He can find that pass, he can find that moment and he can find that bit of quality to finish. He’s dangerous in those positions.
"We’ve seen teams recently make a big effort to stop him, and that’s understandable.
"Knowing Finn, he’s probably a little disappointed he hasn’t had even more. It’s a really good sign. He’s got to have patience and belief to keep going. Over the course of the season he’s done terrific."
Carrick is delighted with Azaz's progress but not one bit surprised. When Boro did their homework on the forward before signing him in January last year, they learnt of his drive and desire to improve and succeed.
And his professionalism, commitment and hard work is paying off.
“He’s hugely driven and really motivated to do well," said Carrick, whose Boro side will move up to fifth if they can win at Blackburn on Friday night.
"He wants information, he wants to learn and he wants to improve. He’s such a hard worker and sometimes you’ve got to hold him back a little but because he’s so keen.
"It’s a fantastic attitude to have. In the end, you get the rewards for the work you put in. He’s doing really well.”
