MIDDLESBROUGH, England, Oct 30, 2007 (AFP) - South Korea striker Lee Dong-gook has told Middlesbrough manager Gareth Southgate he is fed up of sitting on the bench.

Lee has started only four Premier League matches and is yet to score a goal since joining Middlesbrough after a successful trial in January.

His spell on the sidelines has come as a shock to Lee, who is regarded as one of the best players in Asia.

The 28-year-old believes too much was expected of him while he adapted to life in England, but he is determined to prove Southgate wrong.

?First of all, I have not had the chances and I have had too much pressure on me,? said Lee.

?Firstly, I am very annoyed that the media evaluates me before the manager does.

?I will do my best to make sure the memory of me to Middlesbrough fans is one that I am a passionate player.

?This league is very tough and fast, much more than Korea.?