Fabio Rochemback has been the surprise package of Boro's season so far, with the skilful midfielder's turnaround in fortunes based on combining hard work with his obvious flair.

The Brazilian appeared to be on his way out in the summer after a difficult season, but he has knuckled down and at last seems to be enjoying life at the Riverside.

This comes after the low point of his pre-season sending off at Werder Bremen, which saw him miss the start of the Premiership season through suspension.

"It hit me very hard," said Rochemback, who will line up in Boro's midfield against Everton today.

"I was frustrated with the way things were going in the game and kicked out. I regret what I did but at the same time I never thought I would have to sit out the start of the season."

"I was delighted when the manager put me straight back into the side. The team had just come back from Fulham with a win but Southgate showed faith in me and my ability. That meant a lot to me."

It seems that Southgate's faith has paid off and the manager is delighted with Rochemback's impact on the side.

"It was a shame for us to lose him at the start of this season but he's come back in and been very effective for us," said Southgate of the ex-Barcelona man.

"There was a spell where he was unsettled, but only because he wasn't in the team. He loves playing football and he lives for it.

"He's an excellent footballer, very skilful and can open up defences. It's important to have that sort of flair in your side."

Rochemback freely admits he initially found it hard to settle after joining Boro from Sporting Lisbon.

"It was difficult to adapt in England but there is a new atmosphere here and one which I am enjoying greatly. I'm feeling really good at the moment.

"I feel I've personally had a good start and I want to carry it on further. I've worked very hard to get to the stage where I am now and I am always pushing myself to do better."

The Boro fans who took Juninho and Emerson to their hearts, have noted the Brazilian's recent good form and he's well on the way to becoming another cult hero at the Riverside.

"The fans have been fantastic to me this year. I am a confidence player and I think they understand my efforts in the games now," aaid Rochenback of the Boro faithful.

"When they shout my name, I feel really good and I can't wait to score in front of the North Stand in a big game."

Asked about the possibility of Boro exercising their option to extend Rochemback's contract, Southgate is upbeat.

"There is a two-year option that kicks in at the end of this season and the option is in the club's favour to take that up.

"It's something that you assess over a period of time, not just a couple of weeks, but obviously he's a very influential player for us at this moment in time".

With the manager and supporters firmly in his corner, Rochemback added: "I am settled, my family is settled and my future is here."