I think he can play a massive role in my development. That's important to me," he said.
Meanwhile, a recently departed player discussed his decision to transition to a new club challenge. He mentioned a positive introductory meeting with his new manager via Zoom call.
"There was a lot of interest, and I obviously spoke to the manager on a Zoom call and that went really well.
I like how he spoke and learning the ambition from the club – that's what drove me towards coming here," said the former Middlesbrough player.
The player reflected on leaving his boyhood club after nearly two decades to find extra motivation elsewhere.
"I have been at Middlesbrough since the age of seven and played all the way through. I'm 28 now and it was my first medical.
It's a new start for me, a fresh challenge and I think I'll get an extra ten per cent out of myself," he said.
Alongside the team's preparations, Middlesbrough unveiled four new Castore kits to mark the club's 150th anniversary. The kits feature a newly rebranded club crest.
The main home, away, and third kits are available for pre-order from July 7 until July 10.
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A special limited-edition navy blue anniversary kit will launch in October for a designated celebration fixture against Wolves.
