Emnes delight at Boro switch

Boro pip Feyenoord to youngster's signature

By James Pearson   Last updated: 5th July 2008

Emnes delight at Boro switch

Emnes: 'Dream' move

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Middlesbrough's first signing of the summer Marvin Emnes has stated it was a straight two-horse race for his signature.

Although Boro secured his services on a four-year contract on Friday, Eredivisie outfit Feyenoord provided stiff compeition for the 20-year-old forward.

However, once Gareth Southgate's side agreed a fee with Sparta Rotterdam, Emnes had his heart set on a move to England's illustrious Premier League.

The youngster has revealed it is a 'dream' to play in England's top flight and that he is looking to seize the opportunity he has been given.

Two-horse race

"There were several clubs interested and in the end it was between Middlesbrough and Feyenoord," he told the club's official website.

"It was Middlesbrough who reached agreement with Sparta and I was happy with that because the Premier League will be a great challenge for me.

"I am very excited to join Middlesbrough. It's a dream for any player to play in the Premier League, but it is a great opportunity for me when I am still so young.

"I had a good year with Sparta and there was a lot of interest in me but I was enthusiastic about the idea of joining Middlesbrough from the very first day I heard of their interest."