The Ahli midfielder completed his move to Middlesbrough on Friday after penning a three-year deal for £650,000, to join fellow countryman Mido at the Riverside.

Southgate was convinced with Shawky's abilities after watching him during the trial and hailed his arrival.

"He's an experienced international player, a central midfielder, we've watched him a few times and feel he could be one that comes into the squad," he was quoted as saying by the club's official website.

"He's an unknown quantity in this country but he's an experienced international and we feel he will both boost the squad and challenge for the first team.

"We want competition for places. There's a real buzz about the place. We've brought the average age down and we're brining in players for the long-term."

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