Former Manchester United Left Back Fabio da Silva said the offer from Middlesbrough to return to top flight football since his exit was too good an offer to refuse when they came calling.

The 26-year defender started his career back home playing for a Brazilian side Fluminense. He played in the under-17 team before his switch to play for the Red Devils academy.

Fabio and his brother Raphael played at Old Trafford until their eventual exit from the side. Since his links to Boro and his eventual transfer, he only just revealed why he moved to the newly promoted Premier League side.

“To be back in the Premier League is fantastic. When I arrived [in England] Boro were in the Premier League. I know them well and I know the fans. It’s exciting as well to be given the opportunity to come and play with Middlesbrough,” Fabio said.

After his exploits in United’s first team from 2008 to 2012, he was sent on loan to Queen Park Rangers (QPR) before leaving the club on a free transfer the subsequent year. He has been with Welsh side Cardiff since 2013 until his move to Boro.

On the chances Boro have to remain afloat after this season, he said: “I think [Boro] had a strong team last season already, and have bought some good players. My ambition is to play well and help the team. We are strong enough to stay in the Premier League.” He added that he was excited to return and even recalled a goal he scored against Boro. Last season when Cardiff played Boro at the Riverside, Fabio scored a stunning half volley that eventually on the Goal of the Season at Cardiff. Fabio said he wished he could score that every week but promised to give him best for the team.