Behind Enemy Lines - Middlesbrough

I fancy us to win 2-0 and you can check all our previous encounnters with them in our head to head section

On The Cross got in touch with James Boothby of mfc1986.co.uk for his views on how the game will go.

How much of an impact has Steve McLaren made since his arrival?
A huge impact I feel. He inherited an ageing squad of has-beens and
turned them into a decent side. The signing of Southgate was a masterstroke
and last season he cut the wage bill by about £5 million. Now he has also
cut the size of the squad to 27, but this season will be the real test.

How do you think the 2002/03 season will go?
This season has the potential to be one of our best ever. We have the
strong defence from last season, and in the summer we have added creativity
and goal-scoring potential. If everything gels together well a top 10 finish
is on the cards, and possibly a good cup run again.

Who are your new signings this season?
Massimo Maccarone has joined us from Empoli for £8.15 million. He
should pose the goal scoring threat we have been missing. Also George
Boateng from VillaBoro, Geremi on a years loan from Real and of course
Juninho.

Do you see the return of Juninho again as a good thing?
100%. I think he showed in the world cup that he is back to something
like his best and he is what we lacked last season, a creative midfielder.
It's just a shame we won't see him until after Xmas.

Who should we watch out for on Saturday ?
I'd say probably Maccarone. He has came here with a good repuation and
certainly has an eye for goal. If Boksic plays then he can also be a handful
for anyone.

What's your prediction for Saturday?
2-1 to the Boro im afraid :-)