Gareth Southgate insists he isn't afraid to get tough with his former team-mates after his appointment as Middlesbrough boss.
The 35-year-old succeeded Steve McClaren last week but despite widespread popularity among the Teessiders' squad he previously captained, Southgate says he won't hesitate to upset his friends if necessary.
"If you're in charge then you have to establish that fact from the off but I hope my relationship with them doesn't change too much, that would be a mistake," said Southgate.
"I've played with them, I'm on good terms with them and I want that to remain. Of course I'll have to make decisions that are going to disappoint them - but I'm not afraid to make those decisions.
"I've got to do the right thing for the club but I will do it in the right way, I want to manage people properly. The lads will expect that of me.
"I was very demanding of my team-mates as a player and as a captain. All the players here know the commitment I expect from everybody."
Though in Germany as part of ITV's World Cup team, Southgate is hoping to finalise a deal for German international Robert Huth, having agreed a fee in the region of £4 million with Chelsea and also personal terms, and to discuss a one-year contract extension with Jimmy Floyd Hasselbaink.
However, Huth himself said yesterday: "I have spoken to them (Boro) about details but I haven't signed anything yet.
"I honestly can't tell you when I will make the decision. It has to come from the heart and obviously from the brain as well.
"It could be now, could be tomorrow, could be anytime soon."
