ONE of the hottest properties in Europe, Turkey captain Tuncay is among his country's biggest superstars.

Before signing for Boro on a free transfer, becoming Gareth Southgate's third signing of the 2007/08 season, Tuncay spent the majority of his career with European giants Fenerbache.

Affectionately known as Braveheart in his homeland for his never-say-die attitude, Tuncay started his career with Sakaryaspor, scoring 32 goals in 66 appearances, before being quickly snapped up by Fenerbahce in the summer of 2002.

He instantly became a firm fans' favourite, helping the club to three Super League titles in 2004, 2005 and 2007. He is also the club's leading all-time goalscorer in European competitions.

Known for his adaptability, Tuncay can play on either wing, as a support striker or up front on his own.

After a successful U21 career, he excelled at full international level and has scored 13 goals in 43 appearances to date.

He won the silver boot award in the Confederations Cup back in 2003 and continues to be one of Turkey's star players at international level.

After arriving on Teesside he became an instant hit with the fans, although goals initially proved difficult to come by.

He finally broke his famine with Boro's goal after coming off the bench in a 1-1 draw with Reading on New Year's Day 2008.

He followed that with a first Riverside goal in the 2-1 win over Arsenal in the next game and made it three in three with the winner in a 1-0 victory at Derby, earning the BBC's Goal of the Month award in the process.

Tuncay finished his debut season in England with eight goals in the Premier League, second to only Stewart Downing in the Boro scoring charts.

He scored the winner in Boro's second home game of the 2008/09 season against Stoke in late August, but had to wait until November 9 before netting again, scoring twice in Boro's 2-1 win at Aston Villa, the second and last away win of the season.

Tuncay notched the clincher in a 2-0 win over Liverpool at home on March 1, before rounding off the Riverside campaign with a sumptuous overhead kick to maintain his excellent scoring record against Aston Villa.

Only Stewart Downing made more Barclays Premier League appearances for Boro during the 2008-09 season.

After relegation to the Coca-Cola Championship manager Gareth Southgate admitted it would be difficult to keep Tuncay at the club.