MIDDLESBROUGH are hoping Croatian international striker Alen Boksic will maintain a scoring run at Ewood tonight in the Worthington Cup third round.

The former Lazio forward has scored three goals in three successive games, for club and country, following his return from a calf injury against Arsenal on the opening day of the season.

Boksic hit a dramatic last-minute penalty at Chelsea and scored from the spot against Southampton, before being a World Cup match-winner last weekend.

His goal in the 1-0 win over Belgium guaranteed Croatia a place in the World Cup finals next year.

Manager Steve McClaren said: "Boksic has got better in each game following his comeback.

"He enjoyed being on international duty last weekend. He scored a good goal and has been in a buoyant mood this week.

"Boksic said he is fully fit again though we will give him another test before the game. He is over the moon at Croatia qualifying for the World Cup finals.

"Alen is a world class player who can score goals at the highest level.

"Middlesbrough will have a number of players involved in the World Cup. I think that is a great boost, not just for the individuals but for the club as well."

McClaren is undecided over his final team selection and who will form his strike-force.

Boksic could partner either Brian Deane or Szilard Nemeth in a game McClaren will be treating seriously.

"The Worthington Cup is a passport into Europe. The further you progress in any competition the more exciting it becomes."