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Middlesbrough FC head coach Aitor Karanka says a fully-firing Alvaro Negredo has the talent to play for any side in the Premier League.

The 30-year-old scored his second goal since joining on a season-long loan from Valencia as Boro ran out 3-1 winners at Aston Villa on Saturday.

Negredo, 30, showed his predatory instincts as he slammed home from close range after Viktor Fischer's shot was only parried, meaning it's two goals in two starts for the former Spain international in pre-season.

Karanka admits former Manchester City hotshot Negredo is still getting back up to speed, but believes he has the ability to play for any of England's elite when on top form.

"He's been good for us," Karanka said when asked about Negredo.

"I want to tell everybody that we have to keep calm with him because he's coming from a difficult season (at Valencia) last season, he's not 100% but he's scoring goals.

"The league (this season) will be different and we have to be patient. He knows he's not 100% and I know that, as if he was 100% he'd be playing for Chelsea, Arsenal, Manchester United or Manchester City.

"I'm pleased with him, he wants to help us and for that reason he joined us.

"Last season he couldn't play in the games he would've liked to play, so we have to give him all our confidence. But he has to know we have Jordan Rhodes and David Nugent too - great alternatives."

Negredo was joined on the scoresheet at Villa Park by striker Rhodes and fellow new signing Fischer, who put in an inspired second half performance.

The Denmark international came away with a goal and an assist in his best Boro display so far, following his £3.8m summer move from Ajax.

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Karanka admits he's delighted with how all his nine new signings have settled on Teesside, and says Boro's team spirit and togetherness remains as strong as ever.

"We're mixing players who were fighting to stay in the Championship two and a half years ago with players who were in the Champions League two years ago," Karanka said.

"But the spirit in the squad remains the same.