MARVIN Emnes believes Middlesbrough head to Wanderers for their New Year’s Day clash with a fresh frame of mind.

Boro have won their last three games under new boss Aitor Karanka.

The omens, however, are not in their favour as they were soundly beaten on the first day of this year and last.

New Year’s Day 2013 saw them go down to Blackpool, with Derby County beating them on the first day of 2012.

Boro striker Emnes says his side are looking to rid themselves of that jinx and continue the progress made over the Christmas period.

“We haven’t done so well on New Year’s Day lately and it has been the start of a really bad time for us in the last two seasons,” said the forward, who is expected to shrug off an ankle injury to face Wanderers.

“But we are playing well now and everyone looks sharp and solid so it is time to go there and change that form.

“We have a bit of a bounce after three good games and so we all think we can go there and take the three points.

“The manager has asked a lot of us since he arrived and it has taken some time but it is coming now.

“We are all smiling. Everything looks a lot brighter after a few wins.”