Former Middlesbrough midfielder Dean Whitehead believes it was the right time to leave the Riverside and is looking forward to a new challenge at Huddersfield Town, reports the Gazette Live. 

The 33-year-old joined the Terriers yesterday on a free transfer and has signed a two-year deal at the John Smith's Stadium.

Whitehead left Boro at the end of the season after two years at the club and made 25 appearances last season as the Teesside outfit made it to the play-off final, where they were beaten by Norwich City.

The veteran started at right-back in the final, a position he played at for most of the season.

He's hoping to put last season's disappointment behind him and now wants to use his experience to help Huddersfield's younger players in what he described as an "important period" of his career.

“It was a huge disappointment to lose a game like that, but the dust has settled now,” he told the Huddersfield Examiner.

“I was out of contract at Boro, I had a chat with them and we decided a change would be best for both of us and I am looking forward to pre-season and my new challenge here."

Town boss Chris Powell is looking to mould his squad in his first pre-season in charge after taking over in September last year following Mark Robins' departure after an opening day 4-0 defeat to eventual champions Bournemouth.

The holding midfielder added: “I know Jacob Butterfield from Boro and I have played against most of the other lads here.

“They are a good set and there are some talented younger ones who can develop.

“I will try to help them do that and help the club kick on.

“It’s good to get things sorted early, and I’m looking forward to what is an important period for any footballer.

“I’ve joined an ambitious club and I feel I can make a difference here.

“I think by adding a bit of steel and some know-how, we can make a challenge.”

What do you make to the signing Huddersfield Town fans? Are you disappointed that Whitehead has left Middlesbrough supporters? Let us know in the comments section below!