As the internationals took place in mid-week, we Boro fans could take a little head rest and brace ourselves for our game against Bolton.

Bolton appear to be the victims of this rather topsy-turvy league, a win and they straight up there (with us:D) and a defeat sends them crashing down and arm in arm with the Geordies. Slightly under pressure Gary Megson will want to bring a little continuity to the trotters starting with a win against us.

Boro however have a 5 game unbeaten run, and with good performances at Villa and Everton a return to the Riverside is just what we need to keep us up the table and get some points on the board.

My first concern is that Boro become β€˜typical Boro’ and lose in pathetic fashion just like this fixture last season, which saw Gavin McCann squeeze one in to keep the relegation fight ongoing for the trotters. My second concern is our centre backs, Riggott now ruled out for 3 weeks, Poggy dropping out of the internationals and Huth’s continuous injury. If Poggy is injured and Huth doesn’t make a return more so than likely we will Jonathan Grounds partnering David Wheater. My third concern is with someone like Grounds at the back, would he mature enough to deal with that sod Kevin Davies? Let’s hope so as Grounds is a good player and it would be a good test such as his league debut versus Liverpool last season.

Enough of this concern for Christ’s sake we’re doing fine, and the fact that Tuncay bagged a hat trick in mid-week makes me rub my hands with anticipation.

I think we’ll win, but I only think we’ll win if we get into Bolton straight away and not give them enough time to digest themselves into the game and put their own stance on it and dictate the pace.

We’re quicker, we’re home and we’re doing good, bring them on! I’ve looked forward to this game since Sunday night and in front of the Riverside faithful I’d expect a good, strong and winning performance.

2-0 Boro.