George Friend has revealed that Middlesbrough manager Tony Mowbray played a key part in his decision to join the club.

The defender signed a three-year contract at the Riverside after he joined from Doncaster Rovers, and he has admitted that Mowbray's style of play and summer signings were important when making his decision.

Friend told the club's official website: "It was fairly crucial to make the right choice, and a big attraction was how the manager likes to play football.

"I've seen what he has done at previous clubs and his teams like to pass the ball. I hope I fit into that category and I can't wait for the season to start.

"The manager has made some quality signings this summer and these are exciting times for Middlesbrough."

Friend has also played in the Championship for Wolverhampton Wanderers.