MOHAMED SHAWKY insists the North-East winter chill does not worry him and is intent on making a big impact with Middlesbrough, writes Paul Fraser.

The Egyptian midfielder moved to Boro in a £650,000 deal from African champions Al Ahly on transfer deadline day and says he does not want to make up the numbers in Gareth Southgate's squad.

Shawky, a defensive midfielder, has never played outside of his native continent but he is unconcerned having been taken under the wing of international colleague Mido.

Mido has spent the last two years playing in the Premier League with Tottenham and, although temperamental, he has proven himself at that level.

"I'm very happy to have come to Middlesbrough," said Shawky. "All the players here are very, very good and I've watched a lot of English football and it's very strong.

"Club football in Africa is not as quick as it is in England. In Egypt the weather is very hot and here it is cold but that doesn't worry me.

"Mido is a good friend and I have been playing with him in the national team. He's helping me with everything and we have known each other since junior football."

Meanwhile, former Newcastle full-back Alessandro Pistone will not be joining Shawky.

Southgate has informed the Italian that he will not be offered terms at the Riverside Stadium after failing to impress during his week training with Middlesbrough.