Southgate promises more new players will follow Emnes and Digard to Boro

The Boro boss has welcomed new £5million pair Marvin Emnes and Didier Digard to the first week of pre-season training and hopes to add at least two more signings.

Reading midfielder James Harper tops Southgate's list but Royals manager Steve Coppell is reluctant to sell.

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On the lookout: Southgate is keen to add to his Boro squad

But Southgate, who will introduce Emnes and Digard to fans at a press conference on Wednesday, is optimistic he will have more new faces before the start of the season.

He said: 'We feel getting our business done early can be key. You meet your players early on the first day of pre-season and want to set the tone. To have these two boys here is a bonus for us and for them.

'There are a couple of other players where we're monitoring the situation with their clubs. I'm pleased we've got two players in. With any other players, if it takes a bit of time, then so be it.'

The return to fitness of Mido and Robert Huth is also a welcome boost for Southgate, who was deprived of the influential pair for the majority of last season through various injuries.

Former Spurs striker Mido is particularly keen to make a flying start to the new campaign and has shed the pounds during the close season.

Southgate added: 'Mido's been working with one of our fitness coaches in Egypt for four weeks during the summer. That was something he organised for himself and he's come back in good condition.

'We saw for a spell last season what an outstanding player Rob is. That's why I'm quite comfortable with the squad.

'The size is about right and it's also important we don't block the way forward for some good young players we have coming through.'