GARETH SOUTHGATE is confident of landing one of Mido's international team-mates before the transfer window closes this Friday.

Defensive midfielder Mohammed Shawky was originally due for a trial two weeks ago but Southgate decided against that after watching videos of the player.

And, having been impressed by what he has seen and taken advice from Mido himself, the Boro boss hopes to complete the signing of the Al-Ahly player later this week.

"We are in talks with Mohammed Shawky and we are hopeful a deal can be done," said Southgate, who has opted against pursuing Egypt striker Emad Moteab.

Shawky - who could be offered a four-year deal - played in every minute of his country's African Nations Cup success two years ago, while the 25-year-old is renowned for contributing specialist long-range goals.

Southgate, meanwhile, does not expect there to be any more problems with Ayegbeni Yakubu's proposed move to Everton.

Yakubu is still waiting to complete an £11.25m move from the Riverside Stadium after being rejected a work permit over the weekend.

However, the appeal is due on Wednesday and Southgate said: "I am assuming that by the large number of games he has played for us over the last two years that he will be given one."