Boro move delights Boateng as McLaren now chases Blomqvist

GEORGE BOATENG claims to have regained his "hunger and desire" following a £5million move to Middlesbrough.

The former Aston Villa midfielder unveiled at The Riverside yesterday is looking forward to a new challenge at Riverside Stadium.

"The fact Middlesbrough worked hard to get me at the club was tremendous," Boateng said.

"I think Middlesbrough will become a big club sooner or later, with the previous squad, and the new signings, they will become a force," he said.

"I am excited about the new season. I think the move will benefit my play. In the past few days I have felt a hunger and desire again.

"I enjoyed my time at Aston Villa, but the time was right to move on. I am grateful Villa were supportive."

Boateng's move, on a four-year deal, means he will team up with former Villa players Gareth Southgate and Ugo Ehiogu on Teesside.

The Dutchman does not represent the end of manager Steve McClaren's transfer dealings this summer.

Cameroon international Geremi has joined on a year-long loan from Real Madrid, while McClaren will unveil Brazilian midfielder Juninho at The Riverside tomorrow.

McClaren first spotted 23-year-old Geremi playing for Real Madrid against Manchester United in the Champions League and managed to land a player who was once close to moving to Chelsea.

"With Paul Ince and Robbie Mustoe leaving the club, we needed players to fill the gap," the Boro coach said.

"The fact that Geremi could join us for the rest of the season was a tremendous opportunity.

"Geremi will give us flexibility because he can play at right back, right midfield or centre of midfield.

"Ince and Mustoe did a tremendous job for us last season, but we wanted to progress. We have signed quality players and reduced the average age of the side."

McClaren's business may not end with the unveiling of Juninho tomorrow he has not given up hope of attracting former Everton and Manchester United winger Jesper Blomqvist to The Riverside.

He said a decision was imminent.

"I want to bring him here but it's down to the recovery he makes from injury."