Viduka endured a lengthy lay-off after suffering hamstring and back injuries in the corresponding fixture last season on St Stephen's Day.

The Australian had started one game in the previous eight months, against Crystal Palace in April, and on that occasion he had lasted only nine minutes.

It was Boro’s first victory of the season and Viduka’s first goals since he grabbed another double against Manchester City last December.

After 70 minutes Frank Queudrue sent the home fans heading for the exits with the third goal.

Downing floated in a free-kick and no-one in the Birmingham defence went with the run of Queudrue who slid the ball home at the far post.