'The fans were very genuine. I find northern people a lot better than southern people because you know where you stand. Everyone was the same level. Playing football doesn't mean I'm bigger than you': Ray Parlour reveals love for Middlesbrough spell

Ray Parlour transitioned to Middlesbrough in 2004 after a successful career at Arsenal. Under Steve McClaren, he made 33 appearances in the 2004/05 season, helping the team secure a seventh place finish and UEFA Cup qualification. He recalls positive experiences in Middlesbrough, including the club's ambitions which saw them reach the UEFA Cup final in 2006. Despite limited playing time toward his later years there, Parlour fondly reflects on the genuine nature of the fans and his familial experiences in the community.

"Steve was good, Middlesbrough did so well: they put the money down for Mark Viduka, Jimmy Floyd Hasselbaink and some other really top players, and to get to a UEFA Cup final was unbelievable."

"I enjoyed living in Middlesbrough. My daughter went to nursery there and had a Middlesbrough accent. We had to try to change that!"

"The fans were very genuine. I find northern people a lot better than southern people because you know where you stand."

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