Middlesbrough striker Joseph-Desire Job is determined to finally put the disappointment of last season behind him.

And unlike 12 months ago the 23-year-old is aiming to make sure his good summer form continues into the new Premiership campaign.

Job made a blistering start in a Boro shirt when he scored on his English football debut at Coventry City last August in a 3-1 win, but then went off the boil.

The Cameroon international has struggled with injuries since joining from RC Lens and, when he did play, ex-boss Bryan Robson never really allowed Job to play to his strengths.

But under new manager Steve McClaren, the African is convinced he can produce the goods.

"I hope I can play more this year," said Job, who indicated in May that he would leave the Riverside if Robson remained at the helm.

"Last season was annoying because I didn't play enough, but I have given myself a head start already.

"I think that this year can be good for me because things that I was unhappy with before have now been sorted out and there is a new manager here."

Job was tried on the right of midfield in the friendly win at Mansfield by McClaren and looked quite promising.

But he is unlikely to be played in that position permanently - and he was quick to stress that he prefers the more attacking role.

"It was different," said Job. "I'm used to playing centre forward because that is my position.

"The midfield role is not my favourite position, I want to play centre forward.

"But there is no problem if the coach wants me to play on the right, I will do my best wherever I play."

The coming season is a big one for Job because he is determined to play his part for his country in the 2002 World Cup.

And the only way he believes that his wish will come true is by him performing regularly at club level.

"It is not good for me and my chances of playing in the World Cup if I'm not playing for Middlesbrough," said Job.

"It is my ambition to play in the World Cup, it is every footballer's ambition to do that.

"But my first ambition is to have a first team place with Middlesbrough and then to give everything for them so that we have a good season."

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