Mohamed Shawky remains confident he can make the breakthrough at Middlesbrough.

The Egypt midfielder told Boro's website: "I have been in a lot of first team squads without getting a chance to play, but I am desperate to get in the team to help Middlesbrough and show the supporters what I can do.

"The manager has said to me that he is happy with my progress. I am confident I can get in the team. I feel I am ready to play now. "

The former Al-Ahly midfielder praised his team-mates for playing their part in helping him get used to his new surroundings.

"I like the country and the people and I am very happy here, especially now that my wife Kawsr is here with me," he said. "It is a big help to have Mido here with me as a fellow Egyptian, but all the players have welcomed me here."