Boro's 2008-09 preview

BORO FACTBOXStar Man: Stewart Downing
Outstanding campaign last time around and the Teessider will be crucial to any success for Boro this season.

One to Watch: Afonso Alves
Club record signing who shone at the end of last season and he could set the league alight with his clinical finishing.

Manager: Gareth Southgate
Coming to terms with management and big things are now expected of the Boro boss.

INS: Marvin Emnes (Sparta Rotterdam), Didier Digard (PSG)

OUTS: Lee Cattermole (Wigan), George Boateng (Hull City), Lee Dong-Gook (Released), Mark Schwarzer (Fulham), Steve Thompson (Port Vale), Fabio Rochemback (Sporting), Gaizka Mendieta (Released)

Best signing: Didier Digard

Sky Bet Odds: 1,500-1

Likely top scorer: Afonso Alves

Possible best XI (Turnbull; McMahon, Wheater, Huth, Pogatetz; O'Neil, Digard, Arca, Downing, Alves, Mido)

Predicted finish: 12th

Hoyte Puts Pen To Paper

BORO have completed the signing of right-back Justin Hoyte from Arsenal.

The former England U-21 international joins the club on a four-year deal for a fee of £3 million.

Hoyte has successfully passed a medical and agreed personal terms in a deal that was completed earlier today.

The 23-year old will be introduced to the Boro fans shortly before kick-off today.

Coming Up..Tonight

CALL BORO FANS , JOIN US TO WATCH THE MATCH AT SPURS FANS CLUB!

Middlesbrough v Tottenham Hotspur
Kick-off 3pm(10pm local time)

Middlesbrough (from): Jones, Turnbull, Williams, McMahon, Taylor, Grounds, Huth, Wheater, Pogatetz, Aliadiere, Emnes, O'Neil, Digard, Shawky, Downing, Johnson, Tuncay, Mido, Alves.