Tuncay promises Turkish delight

Middlesbrough new boy Tuncay Sanli will step into the Barclays Premier League confident he can achieve his dreams on Teesside.

The 25-year-old Turkey international on Friday night signed a four-year deal, subject to being awarded a work permit, after undergoing a medical on Teesside. He completed his free transfer from Fenerbahce after being convinced Boro can compete for honours under manager Gareth Southgate.

He said: "I am very ambitious to win things and achieve success, as I know Middlesbrough are, so I can promise I will do my very best for the club and the supporters."

He added: "I believe my playing style will suit Middlesbrough and the way that Gareth Southgate wants the team to play. I think we will be ideal for each other. I am competitive, but I think I will bring speed and a hard-working attitude to the team. I will always give 100%.

Tuncay's capture further strengthens Southgate's attacking resources after Jeremie Aliadiere's arrival from Arsenal earlier this week.

Neither is a like-for-like replacement for Mark Viduka, but both men fulfil the criteria of pace and mobility upon which the manager is setting such great store this summer.

Tuncay's style of play established him as a crowd favourite at Fenerbahce, and he is hopeful of building a similar relationship with fans on Teesside.

He said: "I have always been a team player. I play with my heart, as Fenerbahce fans will confirm.

"I had a fantastic relationship with them because they knew I always gave everything I had for the team when I was on the pitch. In return, they always gave me great support.

"Of course, now I hope I have that same relationship with the Middlesbrough supporters and that they will enjoy my style."