Former Middlesbrough and England boss Steve McClaren is pleased with his decision to take the job at FC Twente.

McClaren, who has guided Twente to third in the Dutch league and into the knockout stages of the UEFA Cup, told the Mail on Sunday: "Football is football the world over but I'm really enjoying managing in Holland. The pace of the game here is different. It is based on patient, possession football built up from the back, which I like and which suits my style of management.

"The Dutch have a great tradition for passing the ball and playing attractive football. The fans are knowledgeable and less demanding than their English counterparts.

"It could have been a lot different coming here if the Premier League had not become so cosmopolitan. At Middlesbrough I dealt with players from all over the world, which helps when you work in a foreign country.

"It's a great experience for me. I am proud to spread the English message in Holland."