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Adam Clayton fully believes it’s a case of “the more, the merrier” as far as quality new Middlesbrough FC signings are concerned.

Since the end of last season, Boro have added seven senior players to the first team squad.

One addition has been in Clayton’s area of expertise – defensive midfield – and that’s Dutch new boy Marten de Roon.

But the former Leeds and Huddersfield enforcer is pleased the club are investing in new blood all over the pitch.

“We want as many good players through the door that we can possibly get to give us the best chance to stay in this league,” he told the Gazette.

“So the more quality that comes and the more great people come in is good for the club.

“As long as we keep bringing in the right type of people to help us on our way, the more the merrier.”

Meanwhile, Boro’s week-long trip to Spain comes to an end today with a friendly against Saudi side Al-Ahli at the Marbella Football Center (kick-off 10am UK time).

Clayton says the time spent on the Costa del Sol has enabled the new players to bond with the rest of the squad.

“I think the gaffer uses these trips as much for fitness as for camaraderie, he’s got his signings in early and they’ve been able to get in among the group and really bond,” he said.

“Everyone has been in and out of each other’s rooms and in the physio room chatting so no one has been left out and all the lads are really good lads and really genuine people, none more so than the two major signings (Victor) Valdes and (Alvaro) Negredo, they couldn’t have been better really.”