Essex all-rounder James Middlebrook today expressed his delight that he would once again be playing alongside his old friend Darren Gough this season.

Gough, who had his contract terminated with Yorkshire a fortnight ago, has clinched a deal with Essex where 26-year-old Middlebrook went after being released by his native county at the end of 2001.

And also looking forward to welcoming Gough to Essex is their vice-captain, Paul Grayson, from Bedale, another former Yorkshire player.

"I am delighted that Goughie is joining us and his signing is obviously a great boost for Essex," said Middlebrook who received his county cap during last season.

"Darren is a great player and always has been and I am looking forward to playing in the same team as my pal again.

"Essex want to win some trophies this coming season and Darren is just the sort of person to help us do that because he has the knack of making things happen. His signing ensures that there will be a buzz around Chelmsford when we get playing again and there should be some pretty exciting times ahead."

Middlebrook went to Perth last October for specialist coaching from former England and Hampshire batsman Paul Terry as well as playing grade cricket for Willeton but his visit was cut short last week when he returned home after a scan had found a cyst on his knee.

He yesterday travelled from his home in Pudsey to Essex where he will see a specialist today.

"I am almost certain to have an operation and will have plenty of time in which to make a complete recovery before the start of the new season," said Middlebrook.

Meanwhile, Yorkshire's new captain Craig White attended a training session at Headingley at the weekend when he was able to meet up with his players for the first time since his appointment.

It had been planned that White would join them last Wednesday morning but he could not arrive at Headingley until later in the day after being snowed in at his Scarborough home.

Updated: 11:02 Tuesday, February 03, 2004