MASSIMO Maccarone's make-or-break season at Middlesbrough is set for a belated start in this Saturday's derby with Newcastle United.

The Italian suffered a difficult first year in the Premiership, even though he finished as the club's top scorer with nine goals.

After bursting on to the English scene initially with a string of impressive displays, Maccarone struggled for consistency in the top-flight last season and he failed to command a regular Boro place.

But, despite reports suggesting the Teessiders were prepared to cut their losses on their record buy in the summer, manager Steve McClaren opted to keep the front-man in his squad.

After a promising start to pre-season, Maccarone suffered a serious ankle ligament injury in a friendly at Hull City and he only returned to action for the reserves this month.

Now, after scoring three goals in two games for the second-string, he is in line for a first-team comeback against Newcastle this weekend.

McClaren could draft Maccarone in for Slovakian Szilard Nemeth against the Magpies as a partner for Malcolm Christie.

The 23-year-old, who cost Boro £8.15m in the summer of 2002, has recently indicated his determination to make the most of his second season in this country.

"I am starting to feel better in England," said Maccarone. "Unfortunately the beginning of the season started badly with the injury but I hope to recover my form as soon as possible.

"Last year there were a few problems with the language, but my English has improved and everything is better.

"I am happy to stay here and I am happy to have signed my long contract because I know Middlesbrough will do well."

Maccarone's return to the squad this weekend is part of a double boost for boss McClaren, whose side are hoping to win for only the third time this campaign.

Inspirational skipper Gareth Southgate returns after missing his side's last two matches with a groin injury.

He is likely to come straight in at the heart of the defence at the expense of either Colin Cooper or Chris Riggott, despite their convincing display against Chelsea.

On-loan Dutch winger Bolo Zenden is also back it contention after being ineligible to take on the Blues - the club he has been signed temporarily from.

Defeat to Newcastle will see Boro slip back into the relegation zone, with third-from-bottom Newcastle leap-frogging them.

McClaren said: "It's a very tight league and a couple of wins will make all the difference."