Boro confirm Doriva departure

Middlesbrough have confirmed Doriva has left the club.

The Brazilian has departed after not being offered a new deal at The Riverside.

The 34-year-old made over 100 appearances for Middlesbrough after arriving from Celta Vigo in 2003.

New Boro boss Gareth Southgate paid tribute to the midfielder for his impact at the club.

"It was another difficult decision - he has been a fabulous guy to work with for the last three-and-a-half years," Southgate told the club's official website.

"He is a real gentleman and was always very popular among his team-mates."

Doriva follows Jimmy Floyd Hasselbaink out of the exit door at Boro and Southgate will now switch his attentions to bringing in new signings.

Southgate admitted the club were in talks with several sides about players he hoped to sign.

"We are talking to several clubs about players we are interested in," added Southgate.

"There are decisions to be made all the time, but I won't be rushed into any [signings].

"I have to ensure they are right in the long-term, not just for the short-term.

"Of course, I want to strengthen the squad and we would prefer that to be sooner rather than later.

"I want good players. We have got a very good squad with plenty of back-up for the first 11, so I'm not looking to bring in back-up type players.

"I'm looking for players that will actually improve us as a team."