SLOVAKIAN Szilard Nemeth has told Middlesbrough fans: you can expect to see a lot more from me.

The striker, who scored six times in 15 appearances for Boro last season, struggled to find his feet during his first Premiership campaign after making the move from Inter Bratislava last summer.

But Nemeth, a replacement for Juninho at the Riverside against Alaves on Wednesday night, is convinced that he can push hard for a first-team place.

When the 25-year-old arrived just over a year ago he needed a hernia operation and from there he struggled to oust front-men Noel Whelan and Alen Boksic.

But despite the signing of £8.15m forward Massimo Maccarone, Nemeth insists he is not about to roll over and accept a place in the reserves.

"Every season is important, but last year was difficult because I was meeting new people and learning a new language," he said.

"I think this season will be much better for me. It was good to have a break but I miss football and I'm looking forward to the new season."

Nemeth has impressed Steve McClaren during pre-season and the manager is confident that the quick attacker can push for a place in his starting line-up. Last season McClaren built his side on a solid defence and with that achieved he has bought more forward-thinking players during the summer.

And the former Manchester United number two believes that the arrival of Juninho, who made a goal-scoring start to his third spell on Teesside against Alaves, will help bring the best out of his army of hit-men.

"I think it is now important for the players in our squad to take their opportunity when it comes along," said McClaren.

"Whelan, Boksic, Windass, Nemeth and Job have all played pre-season and all of a sudden we have got competition for places up front."

Meanwhile, Nemeth is one of four Boro stars who have been called up for international duty after the opening Premiership game at Southampton a week tomorrow. Nemeth will be part of the Slovakian side which plays a friendly with the Czech Republic on August 21 while Juninho will represent Brazil in a home friendly against Paraguay.

Italian Maccarone hopes to line up against Slovenia and George Boateng will be on duty with Holland in Norway.

* Darlington's bid to sign Carlisle United's Stuart Whitehead has hit the rocks, writes CRAIG STODDART.

Quakers were hoping to bring him to Feethams on a free transfer, but the Brunton Park club have said that is not possible.

Disappointed Darlington manager Tommy Taylor said: "I am annoyed that we haven't got him. He was my priority because we need someone as cover for Neil Maddison.''

Another player who won't be joining the Quakers is Mark Taylor, despite the former York youngster playing in several friendlies for Darlington this summer.

* Darlington's game at home to Wrexham has been brought forward 24 hours to Friday, September 6 (7.30pm).

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