Boro boss backing Shawky

Gareth Southgate believes Mohamed Shawky will increase competition for places at Middlesbrough.

New signing to increase competition for places

The 25-year-old Egypt international has joined for just £650,000 after impressing the Boro boss while on trial on Teesside.

Although Southgate concedes Shawky is a relative unknown in England, he is expecting the new signing to challenge for a first-team place.

"He's a central midfield player who has good international experience," said Southgate.

"He's someone who we've seen a fair bit of over the past couple of months.

"He's a bit unknown in this country, but we feel he's somebody who will both boost the squad and challenge for the first team.

"We need competition for places. We've got a squad that is starting to come together. Everyone needs pushing and you need that strength and depth."