Scotland livewire Ben Doak has issued a heartfelt message to Middlesbrough fans after his dream loan spell final scenario was thwarted by injury.

The 19-year-old winger, who returns to parent club and new Premier League champions Liverpool, enjoyed an encouraging stint on Teeside after joining on a season-long loan from The Reds.

Doak bagged three goals and seven assists for Michael Carrick’s team as they chased a play-off spot in the EFL Championship.

However, a thigh injury cut his stint short as he was taken off in the 2-1 win against Preston North End in January, when Boro were in the top six.

His absence marked a downturn in form that saw the Riverside Stadium side lose out on a shot at reaching the Premier League.

Fans lived in hope that Doak may extend his stay after taking part in the club's lap of honour following their final regular season home game against Norwich City on Saturday.

But that dream was dashed when the ex-Celtic winger took to his official Instagram page to say his goodbyes to the club’s supporters.

“Not the way I wanted to finish this season off through injury,” he wrote. “But what a time I've had here.

"Thanks to all the players, staff and fans at Middlesbrough for making my time at the club as good as what it was.

"I will be forever grateful and wish everyone at the club the best of luck for the future. UTB [up the Boro]”.

The diminutive attacker was subject of two £16million bids from Ipswich Town and Crystal Palace in January.

But the young Scot will return to Anfield to begin his rehabilitation, and hope to impress Liverpool head coach Arne Slot in pre-season to clinch a permanent squad spot on Merseyside.

Carrick feels that “everyone benefited” from Ben Doak’s loan deal at Middlesbrough. He added: “It would have been nice for it (Doak’s loan move) to have been a little bit longer, but that’s football.

"We've had a few injuries through the season and players have come into the team at different stages.

“That’s just something you’ve got to deal with. I just think that’s the flow of seasons.

"We’ve got good players and there is still time for players to make a big impact - that’s just how it is.

"Players in various positions have had to come in and out, but that’s just part of having a squad.”

Meanwhile, Doak’s club and international teammate Tommy Conway was a double winner at Middlesbrough’s end of season awards for best young player and best goal.

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