MLS star joins up with Boro team mates

ADILSON Malanda is enjoying life on Teesside so far, and is itching to get going as he prepares for his Middlesbrough debut.

- By CRAIG JOHNS

The defender was a £6 million signing in the summer transfer window. But the deal to bring him to Boro included a loan-back option, which allowed Malanda to return and finish the season with Charlotte.

On Teesside for the last two weeks after a short break at the conclusion of the MLS season, the Frenchman is now training full time with Boro and settling in to his new environment.

The Gazette had the opportunity to speak for the first time with Malanda at the Riverside on Tuesday afternoon, as he joined his teammates meeting young supporters at the club's annual Champion Children's Christmas Party.

On settling at Boro, Malanda said: "It's great to be here finally after a little bit of wait. It's nice that I can be with the guys, work a little bit and then look to the rest of the season ahead. It's exciting.

"I was watching. During the season it’s probably tougher than if you weren’t playing, but I managed to keep an eye on the guys and they were doing great.

"Now, finally being here is really pleasing and I'm really happy. The welcome has been incredible. I want to thank the guys and all the people from the club for that. Now, I can’t wait to play in this stadium."