Boro boss Southgate keen to look up rather than down next season

The former England defender is currently preparing an assault on the summer transfer market having overseen another late charge towards to line at the end of the last campaign.

However, a manager who has promised big changes at the Riverside Stadium for the new season, is not prepared to settle for mere safety.  

Keen to kick on: Gareth Southgate

"In the two years I have had as manager I am grateful for the patience that has been shown by the fans," Southgate told the club's official website, www.mfc.co.uk. 

"I am determined to give them something they can shout about this season ahead.

"Last season was a season where we were under pressure too often and that was tough for everybody.  

"There weren't too many games when we were able to relax and play the type of football we all wanted to play. 

"It was essential we stayed in this division, but our ambitions are a lot higher than that and I believe the ambitions of the players are a lot higher than that."

Southgate is keeping the identities of his targets close to his chest, but is understood to be keen to persuade Chelsea midfielder Steve Sidwell his future lies on Teesside. 

However, he will attempt to lure a man rated at around £6million to the north east amid stiff competition from a series of other potential suitors. 

Looking to stregthen: Southgate wants more marquee signings such as Afonso Alves (above)

Southgate has made no secret of the fact that his focus will be on his midfield with Fabio Rochemback and Gaizka Mendieta having left the club.  

He has been linked with a series of targets - Portsmouth's Sean Davis is the latest - including Newcastle's James Milner, Tottenham's Tom Huddlestone and Heerenveen's Michael Bradley.

But as he attempts to boost his squad, he is almost certain to rebuff any approach for England Under-21 international Adam Johnson.  

Coca-Cola Championship Watford and QPR have both been touted as possible destinations for the 20-year-old, who made 12 appearances on loan to the Hornets last season.  

However, Southgate has repeatedly spoken of his determination to hang on to the club's most promising home-grown talents - Stewart Downing and David Wheater both signed new contracts last season - as he attempts to build for long-term success.