Sunday, January 13, 2008

Downing Flirts With Spurs, Warns Boro

Stewart Downing has long been courted by the London club as a potential solution to their left-wing woes.

Though Steed Malbranque provides quality, Spurs are rumoured to be seeking a left-footed player to function as a more natural winger, and Downing fits the bill.

A star at his hometown club, Downing has shown loyalty but has recently shown signs of wanting to compete at a higher level.

"I am aware and flattered by the interest from Tottenham," he said to Sky Sports News.

"But until Middlesbrough and Tottenham agree terms I remain a Middlesbrtough player and am fully committed to helping Gareth Southgate and the team anyway I can.

"I hope this situation is resolved sooner rather than later as all the speculation is affecting me and I would like to drawn a line under the situation and focus fully on my football career."

Such words point ominously towards a move to the capital, the player's manager Gareth Southgate is understandably eager to hold on to one of his star performers and remains optimistic regarding the England international's future.

"We have had no bids," declared Southgate. "In Stewart's case, we have probably had stronger interest in the past. He loves being here and playing as best he can.

"I don't think it was his last game. This is part and parcel of dealing with January. I'll be glad to see the back of it."

Downing's agent Ian Elliot remained slightly ambiguous regarding the issue, but again suggested a resolution needed to be reached as soon as possible, suggesting the player wants the transfer finalised.

"Stewart is a lovely lad and he gets on with it like a true professional but this issue needs to be resolved," said Elliot.

"He has had discussions with Middlesbrough and they know his feelings but this needs to be resolved."

The fee for the player is rumoured to be in the region of £8 million.


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