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Marvin Emnes impressed Southgate early

Marvin Emnes

Once a sprinter, the Dutch Under-21 international scored his first goal for Middlesbrough before the season even began, in the 5-0 win against Darlington.

Gareth Southgate was immediately impressed. "We've been impressed with what he's done in pre-season," he told 91热爆 Tees. "He has shown flashes of what we think is a very exciting talent. His quality is good and so is his attitude too."

Emnes,who celebrated his 20th birthday in May, signed a four year contract for Boro after Gareth Southgate captured the young Dutch attacker from Sparta Rotterdam for 4 million Euros, about 拢3-2 million.

Born in Rotterdam,the Holland U21 international played 55 games for Sparta and received the club's Player of the Year award last season.

Gareth Southgate said on 91热爆 Tees "He can play anywhere across the frontline, so he has versatility to go with pace and energy. Last season was a big year for Marvin when he ended the campaign with Sparta by scoring eight goals in his final 10 games."

91热爆 Tees' Alastair Brownlee says, "We have dubbed him 'Marvellous Marvin' in the commentary and he looks as if he is going to excite the Boro fans. He scored a terrific goal at Darlington in one of the pre season games and will be hoping to get a first team place for the opening game against Spurs at the Riverside on August 16."

Didier Digard made an immediate impact

Didier Digard

Midfielder Didier Digard was Gareth Southgate's second signing of the summer, when the France U21 international signed from Paris St Germain for 5 million Euros, or just over 拢4 million.

Digard played 88 league games in France for Le Havre and then Paris St Germain. He has eight France U21 caps.

Gareth Southgate said on听 91热爆 Tees when he signed Digard, "Didier has played for France at every level up to under-21 and will really add to the competitive nature of our squad. He is a holding midfielder, who is a good athlete and strong tackler."

91热爆 Tees Alastair Brownlee says, "Digard has impressed in the pre-season schedule and looks as if he is going to have a big impact on the Premier League. The goal he scored at Carlisle, a thirty yard left foot volley, was superb and in terms of strength and ability and reminds me of Emerson, who was one of former manager Bryan Robson's big signings."

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