ACTION-MAN Gaizka Mendieta has been hailed as Middlesbrough's finest foreign import.

That is the verdict of one of Boro's most experienced players who has seen so many pass through the Riverside doors.

Brazilian World Cup winner Juninho, Italian white feather Fabrizio Ravanelli and samba star Emerson are just three of the internationals who have worn the red shirt.

But none have had the impact which is currently being made by Mendieta, according to the unnamed veteran Boro star.

And Boro boss Steve McClaren insists Mendieta will get even better during his time on Teesside - where he has committed himself to a five-year deal.

"What has surprised me is how quickly he has settled into the Premier League. He is getting better with every game he plays and he is becoming very influential," said the Boro manager, whose side travel to Manchester City tomorrow.

"That is not just because of his technique and ability, it is down to his attitude as well. It's first class.

"One of our more experienced players, who has been at this club for a long, long while, said that Mendie is the best foreign player who has been at Middlesbrough in terms of ability coupled with attitude and professionalism."

"The players here know he is a good player but what they appreciate the most is the way he works for the team as well.

"He is a world-class performer and an all-action player who has real heart as well. He attacks and he tackles back ."

Mendieta is playing on the right of a four-man midfield under McClaren.

But the Boro chief believes the former Champions League winner could adapt to any position.

The 29-year-old, who once cost Lazio nearly £30m from Valencia, has recently moved his family to the North-East.

And the free capture, who struggled to find top form in Italy, has been tipped to revel in the Premiership.

"When he first spoke to me, I told him he would enjoy his football over here and he would be playing week in and week out," said McClaren.

"He knew that he would be given the freedom to express himself and that he would be able to get his form back to the period where he was enjoying his football. That for us is the main thing.

"He can play anywhere and at the minute he is playing in a position that reflects his strengths.

"He tells everybody around the place that he is enjoying it here and that's why he has moved his family over.

"We take pride at this football club when foreign players come here; we make sure we look after them because their welfare is the important thing. We know if they are happy off the field then generally they will be happy on it."

Read more about Middlesbrough here.