Middlesbrough head coach Aitor Karanka spoke on Friday (19th August) about the forthcoming Tees-Wear derby against Sunderland.

SOUNDBITE: (English) Aitor Karanka, Middlesbrough head coach :

"I knew a few players that we brought here this season, last season wasn't their best season but I knew most of them had Premier League experience and for that reason I was confident. The last game against Stoke was really good for me because some players showed me they are better than I thought."

"I can't say a lot of things because it's my first derby. Since I arrived here I heard how big and important this game is for everybody. Again it's my first derby and I know it's an important game for everybody but it's another three points. We need to add points every single game this season in the Premier League. We know it's going to be a difficult game. Sunderland are more than just three points but we have to think of them as just three points."