The 27-year-old former Heerenveen star registered his first goals for the club when he claimed a double in Sunday's 2-2 draw with title contenders Manchester United.

Alves has had to remain patient - the £12.7million hitman made his ninth appearance for the club in the United game, and had previously found clear-cut chances difficult to come by.

However, two expert finishes against a side which had not conceded twice in a game since the 2-1 derby defeat by Manchester City on February 10 illustrated his potency.

Arca said: "He has started to adapt to English football and make his runs. He is so sharp that he can go past any centre-back in the Premier League.

"He showed against Manchester United how good he is. The second goal especially was fantastic, it was a great finish from him.

"We are glad he scored two goals, and hopefully his confidence is going to be extra high for the next game."

That next game is a trip to Tottenham tomorrow in which Juande Ramos' side will attempt to atone for an horrific 4-1 defeat by Newcastle last time in front of their own supporters.

The trip to London will hold few fears for Boro, who drew 1-1 at Arsenal on March 15 and were unfortunate to lose by the only goal at Chelsea a fortnight later.

With Alves having rediscovered the touch in front of goal which brought him 34 goals in 31 appearances in his first season in Holland, Arca and his team-mates will hope the problems which have plagued the club's strikers this season are at an end.

Both Mido and Jeremie Aliadiere have been injured and had to serve lengthy bans this season, and the Egypt international may not feature again before the end of the campaign after undergoing hernia surgery.

But at least Arca is now back in harness after losing his place in the side.

The 27-year-old Argentinian was out of the picture for four games, but returned against United and will hope he has done enough to keep his place.

He said: "It's nice. I have been a bit down when I have not been playing, but the lads who have been playing in central midfield have been doing well.

"The manager has given me another opportunity now and I will try to do the best I can."