Middlesbrough's plans for the new Premiership season were given a boost today when loan signing Geremi was granted a work permit.
The 23-year-old Cameroon international agreed a year-long move from Spanish giants Real Madrid after talks on Teesside last Friday but had to leave the country while his application was processed by the Department of Employment.
But Boro confirmed today that the permit has been granted. "This is great news," announced McClaren. "Although we didn't anticipate problems, it's always good when these things are resolved swiftly and positively.
"Having Geremi with us is another piece in the jigsaw and I look forward to introducing him to the rest of the team."
Real's cash problems have given the Teessiders the chance to get their hands on a player who arrives in England with an impressive pedigree, with two Champions League winners medals, an Olympic gold and two African Cup of Nations.