FFC columnist

With samba dancers and thousands of fans flocking to the Riverside in order to catch a glimpse of their record signing, it is fair to say that there has been considerable hype surrounding Alfonso Alves' move from Heerenveen to Middlesbrough. I doubt that the majority of ‘Boro fans had even heard of the Brazilian when news first circulated that the club were interested in signing him. So will this 27 year old really be the man to transform the fortunes of the Teesside club? Well if you believe the stats, then the answer may well prove to be a resounding yes.

With 34 goals last season, Alves boasts a hugely impressive strike rate that ensured he was crowned the undisputed top marksmen in Holland. If Alves can replicate the form that served him so impeccably well in Holland he will certainly prove a popular figure at the Riverside. It is apparent that the Dutch Eredivise is hardly the most testing top-flight league in the world, but hitting the net an incredible 34 times in 31 games is a truly remarkable feat. In fact, Alves finished second to none other than Francesco Totti in the race for the European Golden Boot last season. The brilliant Brazilian's tally included a seven goal haul in one outing which is a somewhat astonishing achievement.

It will be a fascinating prospect to see whether Alves can in fact make a significant impression in the Premier League. Many foreign players have tried and ultimately failed yet Alves is a special talent that certainly has the credentials to be a huge hit in England. The stocky front man is decent with either foot and has proved on more than one occasion that he can strike a ferocious free-kick.

The former Malmo striker rarely squanders a decent opportunity in front of goal and arguably his most valuable asset is a knack to be in the right place at the right time. The new Middlesbrough number 12 has openly admitted it will take time to adjust to the speed of football in England, but will the Boro faithful be willing to bide their time having seen their club pay a rather extravagant transfer fee?

Despite a somewhat uneventful 23 minute debut as a substitute against Sheffield United in the FA Cup, and a relatively ordinary contribution to Saturday's game at Anfield within a similar time span, Gareth Southgate's decision to splash out around £12 million on Alves has injected renewed belief around the Riverside Stadium. It will take time but I for one believe that he can provide the goals that will propel Middlesbrough up the table, and away from any fears of a relegation battle.

• Vote 4 us 07/08 Fanzine Awards
• Become an official writer for FFC
• Write a match preview/review
• Join our Facebook Group
• Add Player to Facebook profile
• Join FFC Fantasy Football