STEVE McCLAREN was delighted to see Joseph Job return to action against Notts Co after a lengthy absence – and made a cheeky claim for the Cameroon striker to be credited with the first goal. The 26-year-old had a hand in Boro’s opener as his low drive was turned into the County net by defender Ian Richardson.
And although tomorrow’s papers are likely to record the strike as an own goal, McClaren issued a tongue-in-cheek appeal to reporters after the game as he said: « Joseph deserves it because he’s been out a while – give him it! »
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Job has been out of the team since injuring his knee ligaments in training back in October and was a surprise name on the team-sheet for this afternoon’s FA Cup tie.
« We wanted to get Joseph back involved as soon as possible. Although he’s only been back in training for a couple of weeks he looked that sharp we thought he was ready. »
Man of the Match Stewart Downing also received warm praise after he tormented the Magpies defence and provided a string of impressive crosses.
« Stewart did very, very well on the left-hand side and created numerous opportunities for us, » said McClaren.
« The loan at Sunderland has done him the world of good. He’s come back more assertive and that showed today. He’s quick, he’s got a great left foot and he added a different dimension to our play. »
All in all it was a satisfactory display, as Boro remained unbeaten in cup competitions this season, having already advanced to the Carling Cup semi-final.
« It was a good game and a shame about the sending off, » said McClaren.
« At the beginning of the day you want to get through games like this. We could have had a hatful but for the woodwork and the goalkeeper.
« But credit to Notts County, even when they went down to ten men they never gave up. »
