The goal might start to look bigger for Jutkiewicz if he leaves, says Karanka

But he has also stressed that if the transfer window closes on Friday without the striker having moved on elsewhere, he will be content to still have him as part of his squad.

The former Coventry City player is reported to be interesting other clubs, and Karanka says he has talked to the player about his future.

”I was speaking to him (on Sunday) and I said if he wants to go then he needs to take the best decision for him,” said Karanka.

”I was a player and I understand strikers and maybe Juke needs to regain his confidence in another place.

“For this reason he needs to think and make the best choice for him.

”If he decides to go it will be good for him to start scoring goals.

“Maybe he needs to go to another team and improve his confidence and look at the goal and see it bigger.

”But I’m very happy with his work on the pitch and the training ground and it’s in his hands.

“He’s our player and if he stays here he’s a good player and I know him.”

Jutkiewicz played the first hour of Saturday’s 2-0 defeat at Leicester City and has started 12 league games this season, scoring one goal, the winner at Charlton in August.

Asked if he will replace Jutkiewicz if he leaves, Karanka said: “Yes.

”The club is working in all directions until the last second and when the January window finishes, I hope to have a better squad than I had at the beginning.”

Boro will look to bounce back from Saturday’s loss when they host FA Cup holders Wigan Athletic tonight.