York-born Steve McClaren returns to North Yorkshire tonight bringing his Middlesbrough side to face Scarborough in the North Riding FA Senior Cup.

The winners of the tie face York City in the final, the Minstermen having beaten Whitby Town on penalties in the first semi-final on Friday.

It will be McClaren's first competitive game in charge of the Teessiders following his summer switch from Manchester United, where his was assistant to boss Sir Alex Ferguson.

It is thought he will not field his strongest side at the McCain Stadium, with £6.5 million England defender Gareth Southgate being among those unlikely to play.

However, a number of first-teamers are likely to feature with the likes of Cameroon international Joseph Desire Job, Marlon Beresford, Irish international Keith O'Neill, Robbie Stockdale and former Leeds United duo Noel Whelan and Brian Deane in the squad.

Brazilian youngster Arturo Bernhardt, 19 on Friday, has been named in the side, while midfielder Mark Hudson, 21, awarded a new contract by McClaren, will also start.

Scarborough player-boss Neil Thompson is one of three Seasiders ruled out, with Darren Stamp and former York City midfielder Scott Jordan also missing the game. Defender Paul Ellender should be fit.

"They've got a few first-teamers down so it will be a good test for us and hopefully we will get a few through the gate," said Thompson.

Should Scarborough win, they will face York City in the final at the McCain Stadium on August 3, kick off 7.30pm.

If Middlesbrough win, the final will be played at the Riverside with the date and time rearranged.

Updated: 10:08 Wednesday, July 25, 2001