MATT Jansen opened his goal-account for the season with a clinical strike in Rovers' second round victory over Oldham.

And manager Graeme Souness will be hoping his star striker can rediscover that scoring touch again tonight against a Boro side with a proud record in the competition.

Blessed with bags of natural ability, Jansen hit the back of the net 24 times last season to lead Rovers back into the Premiership.

But the former England Under 21 international has found the going much tougher this term, with a goal against Ipswich his only effort in the top-flight so far.

However, registering against Boro could be just the tonic he needs as he looks to strike-up a partnership with new-boy Ciccio Grabbi.

But Steve McLaren's Riversiders also boast a natural predator, too, in the muscular shape of Alen Boksic.

The Croatian hit-man scored 12 times in 28 Premiership outings last term, despite a raft of injury problems.

And, on his day, the 31-year-old forward can be one of the most feared finishers in the world.

Rovers' injury-ravaged must be on their guard if they plan to progress into round four.