AFTER finding himself without a manager for the first time in his professional career, Tim Ream admits it has not been easy being an American playing his football on foreign soil over the last fortnight.

Back in favour under interim boss Jimmy Phillips and now accompanied by fellow US international Stuart Holden on the training ground, Ream is feeling a sight more comfortable heading to Middlesbrough than he was when news of Owen Coyle’s sacking broke last week.

“It was quite stressful for the first couple of days, not knowing,” said the defender, who returned to the side last weekend against Bristol City after a six-week absence.

“I’ve taken advice from the other guys, not asking them what to do, but just following their lead.

“My wife and I had a conversation too, and the stressful part was not knowing whether the next manager will like the way you play. It’s fear of the unknown.

“For me and for the other guys that he brought in specifically it was tough – especially Stu (Holden).

“We came over and made big changes to our own lives, and he did a lot to bring us over here.

“So it was tough to take but that’s the ugly side of football and you have to deal with it.”

Although Ream is careful not to put too much emphasis on Holden’s return, he recognises what a huge boost it will be to have the midfielder back in action eventually.

“He’s an interesting character and it’s good to have a familiar accent around,” he said.

“He’s the butt of a lot of jokes but it’s fun to have him back. He brings a different bite to the team but I think he’s still got a few weeks to go before he’s completely ready.

“I’m sure he can achieve big things this year.”