Source: Team_Talk
Downing eyeing England recall
Stewart Downing hopes to use Aston Villa's Europa League campaign as a way to reclaim his spot in the England squad.[LNB] The left-winger failed to make manager Fabio Capello's final cut for the Three Lions' World Cup campaign in South Africa, prompting him to hit out at the Italian coach. [LNB]But despite being overlooked this summer, 26-year-old Downing is confident he can don the England jersey once again. [LNB]"Obviously the World Cup was disappointing for England, but I'm sure there are a lot of players who are thinking they've got a chance of getting back in the squad. That definitely includes me," Downing told the Daily Express. [LNB]"I'll never give up on England. I would love to play again. It's great playing for your country. [LNB]"I'll just keep my head down, play well and if he gives me a chance I've got to grab it."[LNB]Downing refuses to dwell on his exclusion from the South Africa squad, insisting he is fully focused on doing well for Villa this season. [LNB]"I said at the time that I was disappointed at the way it was done," he added. "But there is no point in moaning about it. You just get on with it. [LNB]"The only thing I can do is play well for Aston Villa, that's the only way you're going to get into the squad. [LNB]"If he picks me it's a bonus, if he doesn't I'm not going to lose any sleep over it." [LNB]Villa get their Europa League campaign underway against Rapid Vienna in Austria on Thursday. [LNB]And Downing, who enjoyed a run to the 2006 final with Middlesbrough, insists caretaker manager Kevin MacDonald will not be taking the tournament lightly. [LNB]"Every game we want to win and the Europa League is a good competition," he added. [LNB]"I played in it at Middlesbrough and played in some fantastic games. It raises the club's profile and players' profile. [LNB]"And knowing Kev, I'm sure he'll want to win that game and there will be a strong squad going out there."
