Jonathan Greening is hoping to make history at The Hawthorns tomorrow helping Albion to their first Premiership double. Albion have never beaten a side home-and-away in the newly formed top-flight but could end that record against Middlesbrough tomorrow (KO 3pm).
The Baggies claimed their only away victory of the season at The Riverside Stadium back in September with Jonas Olsson opening his account in Albion colours in the 53rd minute. Now, Greening is hoping for more joy against his old club and record three points which would see Albion draw level with 'Boro on 21 points.
"Someone told me we've never done the double over anyone in the Premier League, so this weekend would be as good a time as any to put that right," the skipper said.
"This is a massive game for us.
"I thought we did well at Villa on Saturday but two sloppy goals cost us.
"We produced a professional performance at Peterborough on Tuesday and now we're ready for Boro.
"There's no room for sentiment in this game and we need to get the three points and drag them towards the bottom three.
"We've got a few games coming up where, if we get results, we can climb the league.
"Beating Man City and Spurs has given us a chance and we're now focused on putting pressure on others.
"Those two home wins have given us encouragement and our home form will be vital this year.
"But we have to be right at it against Boro."
The visitors visit The Hawthorns in poor form having not registered a win in nine games with captain, Emmanuel Pogatetz, struggling with a hamstring problem. The Baggies skipper played alongside current Riverside chief Southgate during his three years on Teeside and is taking nothing granted.
"I know Gareth really well and he will have them fired up," Greening continued.
"It's a vital game for Boro too.
"Gareth's a top man.
"He took me under his wing a bit because we both signed during the same summer.
"He's a top pro and a really nice fella.
You could tell from day one he was going to be a manager and I'd love to see him succeed.
"The chairman up there is very loyal and over time he will do a good job."