Didier Digard has revealed he turned down rival Premiership offers to sign with Middlesbrough.

The former PSG midfielder told Boro's website: "I am very pleased to be joining Middlesbrough because it is a project that is totally different to Paris St Germain.

"I know you are trying to build something here.

"Gareth Southgate was a big influence on my decision to come to Middlesbrough. I had the opportunity to go to other clubs - including Monaco, Newcastle United and Portsmouth - but I was very impressed by Gareth.

"I know he has a great relationship with the players and it was clear he knew exactly what he wanted to do with the club. He convinced me this was the club for me."