Boro deny Downing concern
22 Feb 2008 - 11:29:08
Middlesbrough manager Gareth Southgate has revealed Stewart Downing has yet to sign his new contract, but expects the winger to put pen to paper in the coming days.
The England international agreed a new five-year contract to remain at the Riverside Stadium last week to finally end months of speculation linking him with a move to Spurs.
However, despite the paperwork on Downing's deal yet to be completed, Southgate has urged Boro fans not to be concerned.
"As with any contract, it has to go to one side's solicitors to make sure everything is right," he revealed.
"It's just about physically being here and getting it all done. There is no stumbling block.
"I know Stewart is keen to just get it done and I'm sure that it will be done in the next couple of days or so."
Meanwhile, Southgate has hailed the recent displays of Brazilian midfielder Fabio Rochemback.
Rochemback struggled to adapt to life in the Premier League following his move from Sporting Lisbon in 2005, but is now regarded as an integral part of the Boro midfield unit.
"It has taken time for him to come to terms with our league, but he is a real talent," he told the club's official website.
"Barcelona must have seen some of that talent at an early age to have snapped him up when they did.
"He is a quiet lad and a private person. He is very settled off the field and his girlfriend from Brazil is here with him now.
"Football is pretty much what he lives for. He is a typical Brazilian in that he just wants to play."