DIDIER DIGARD is a tough tackling central midfield player who has enjoyed huge success at international junior level with France.

The 21-year-old ball-winner, who attracted interest from a number of top clubs before moving to Boro, joined Paris St Germain last summer after beginning his career with Le Havre.

He made 72 appearances for his first club and scored three goals before a 2.5 million euro transfer to Paris, where he played under former Rangers manager Paul Le Guen.

A thigh injury restricted his appearances as PSG endured a difficult campaign, but Gareth Southgate pushed to the front of the queue to sign the young talent for five million euros on July 4 2008.

He played 15 times in the league in the 2007/08 season and has represented France at U15, U16, U17, U18, U20 and U21 level.