AFONSO ALVES will soon be on the goal trail after twice hitting the woodwork against Chelsea, Gareth Southgate believes.

The Brazilian international made a major impact after coming on in the second half, first striking a post after Carlo Cudicini was stranded and then heading against the bar.

He also missed a great opportunity to equalise when he glanced Stewart Downing's pinpoint cross just wide.

"That's the sharpest we've seen him in a match, we've seen that in training," said Southgate.

"He needs that match sharpness now and he'll only get that by playing.

"The chance where's he hit the post he did brilliantly to make it for himself and get round the keeper and he's done pretty much everything right.

"The header that hit the bar he's done well to get over it as much as he did and the other header was obviously a golden chance for us.

"In that second half Stewey, Jeremie and Afonso started to look a threat in their different ways and it was pleasing to give a good account of ourselves."

Get all the best TV interviews with the players and manager on Boro World.