Middlesbrough: Boss Backs Mendieta To Shine

Middlesbrough manager Steve McClaren is relishing his side's Uefa Cup clash with Lazio and believes Gaizka Mendieta will be especially excited.

The Spaniard joined the Rome club in a near £28.9m transfer in 2001 after starring at Valencia, but he failed to adapt to Serie A and after a loan move to Barcelona he came to Teesside.

McClaren told the club's official website: "That will be a big, big game but it will obviously be special for Mendi.

"I don't think he has anything to prove but he will obviously want to do well against them and to help us qualify."


He's a great player, superb signing for Boro.

Mendieta does look a great player i agree. Mclaren has certainly made a few good signings this time around.

He's done well in the market, they look a strong team.

Yeah Viduka and Hasslebaink look good up front together....