"Mido is a good friend to me, I've played with him in the national team and we've known each other since junior football," Shawky told Boro official website on Friday.

"He's helping me with everything. He's also a very good player."

The Egypt international midfielder joined Middlesbrough on a three-year deal for £650,000 (EGP 7.5 million) to link up with fellow countryman Mido, who made an instant impact at the Riverside.

Shawky is aware of the noticeable differences between football in Egypt and England, but is willing to cope.

"All the players here are very, very good and I've watched a lot of English football and it's very strong."

"Club football in Africa is not as strong as it is here. In England the game is very quick. In Egypt the weather is very hot and I know it gets cold here but that doesn't worry me.

"I hope I can play well and help the team in as many matches as I can," the 25-year-old added.

Shawky is set to compete for places in the heart of Boro's midfield against the likes of George Boateng and Fabio Rochemback.