Dobbie Warns Swans of Middlesbrough Threat

Stephen Dobbie has warned the Swans that Middlesbrough have the quality to rise up the table under new boss Tony Mowbray.

Former Boro boss Gordon Strachan brought in a number of new players from the Scottish Premier League, and fellow Scot Stephen Dobbie is well aware of the quality in tomorrow's opposition.

The frontman also believes that under new manager Tony Mowbray, they'll begin to rise up the table after a disappointing start to their Championship season.

'I know quite a few of the lads at Middlesbrough and they are all wanting to impress their new manager,'

'I came through with Kevin Thomson at Hibs, and I have played against people like Boydy, Robson and (Scott) McDonald.

'They are all good players and they don't suddenly become bad. Maybe it's just a matter of settling in and getting used to the Championship for them.

'I think you can see they are improving with the new manager — it makes a difference when a new man comes in.

'That will have given them a little extra boost and they will be fighting to win another game for him against us. They won 3-0 down here last season, so it's going to be a tough game for us.'

Following Marvin Emnes' return to Middlesbrough this week, Dobbie is now looking to return to the first team:

'Marv did well for us, scoring a couple of goals including one in the derby,'

'I don't look at it as good news for me that he's gone. Craig (Beattie) and Gorka (Pintado) will be fighting for the shirt as well and whoever plays has to try to stay in the team, as Marv did. We all have to try to make the same impact that he did.'

Barely given a chance by Paulo Sousa last season, Dobbie insists he is enjoying life under Brendan Rodgers despite his recent stint on the bench.

'I have scored some goals and I have been involved in most games, so I have been happy,' he said.

'The gaffer wants another striker — he is always looking to enhance the squad — but I just have to work hard and try to get the jersey back.'

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