By Craig Hope

DANNY Guthrie wants to take centre stage during this weekend's Tyne-Tees derby and plot yet another victory for Newcastle United from the middle of the park.

The engine-room artisan walked away with the man-of-the-match prize following last Saturday's two-goal display during the 6-1 thrashing of Barnsley at Gallowgate.

And the 22-year-old again hopes to be given the chance to exert his authority on Saturday's meeting with Middlesbrough from his favoured position.

"I love being in the middle, everyone knows that, and I was happy that the manager gave me that chance last weekend," he told nufcTV.

"I think I've scored four of my five goals from centre midfield this season and I enjoy being able to break forward from that position.

"Of course, I'll play any role for the team, but I hope to get another chance in the centre against Middlesbrough."

Guthrie was part of the side which recorded United's first away win since December during the 2-1 success at Watford last month, and the former Liverpool youngster believes the table toppers can take another maximum haul from the Riverside.

"It's another tough away game but we got our first win on the road after quite a while at Watford and we'll be looking to keep that run going," he added.

"The Watford win has certainly restored a little bit of confidence away from home and we're going into the derby on the back of four straight wins."