Czech Republic international defender Tomas Kalas will join Middlesbrough for the rest of the season as a loan from Chelsea.

Kalas will replace Middlesbrough's injured defender Rhys Williams. On a side note, the international defender was also loaned to German side Cologne prior to Middlesbrough.

Middlesbrough coach Aitor Karanka praised Kalas upon his arrival.

"He's a very good player for the present, in a position that has created problems. With him now we're much better because the position is covered by a very good player," Karanka said.

Aside from Kalas, Karanka obtained Jamal Blakman as goalkeeper, Kenneth Omeruo as defender and Patrick Bamford as forward.

Karanka said that Kalas' performance was good after his first game in the team against Reading. The coach added that although Kalas is young, he is a good player. Karanka is not surprised with Kalas' game strategy since he knows how the defender plays.

"It's difficult for a player who is not playing and is new in the team but it wasn't a surprise for me as I know him and what kind of player he is," Karanka added.

The coach praised Kalas' performance during his game against Liverpool and he is convinced that the player is going to improve.

Kalas' recent transfer to Middlesbrough is a good move to revitalize the young player. It can be recalled that FC Koln left Kalas out for unknown reasons. Karanka has given him a chance and this may be a start of his growing career as a fullback.

Last year, the 21-year-old player has expressed his desire to "come out of age." Kalas came to London alone and lived an independent life. As time passed by, the young defender felt that he was already a true blue Londoner.

Fans can watch Kalas play with Middlesbrough against Manchester City on January 24.