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Striker Marvin Emnes, 20, was first in through the door at the Riverside Stadium in July, the Dutch Under-21 international setting Boro back �3.2m. He used to be a sprinter so expect him to leave defenders trailing in his lightning quick wake.

"Yes, I'm a runner, but I like to run with the ball," said Emnes upon his arrival. Cue deep breaths sighed all around Teesside.

Hours later Southgate swooped again, this time for PSG midfield enforcer Didier Digard, 22, who has represented France at Under-21 level. He endeared himself to Boro fans by rejecting rivals Newcastle.

"They've got the ability to break into the team," said Southgate in extraordinarily understated fashion. For a combined �7.2m, you'd certainly hope so.