Middlesbrough FC

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Boro realistic over Downing

27 May 2009 - 08:15:10

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Middlesbrough will not stand in Stewart Downing's way should he want to move on following the club's relegation, according to chairman Steve Gibson.

Boro rejected several bids for the England winger from Tottenham Hotspur in January as they battled to stay in the Premier League.

But Gibson has conceded he will not now deny Downing the chance to continue playing in the top-flight should a suitable offer be received.

However, Gibson has warned any potential suitors that a serious ankle injury that the Middlesbrough-born winger picked up in the penultimate game of the season could threaten any transfer.

"Stewart has been fantastic. He has given us 100 per cent commitment," he said.

"He has suffered - he has suffered as a result of the performances, he has suffered because of the results and he is hurting.

"We had an unsaid agreement that if the right club came in - and I believe Stewart is a top four club player - we would not stand in his way.

"But Stewart was sad. He would be sad to leave our club.

"The injury he has got is going to take a substantial period of time. We think somewhere between four and six months.

"He is a great lad and I just want to see him back on the pitch enjoying his football, pressing for the England squad and if a big club comes in for him, I have given Stewart my word that I wouldn't stand in his way."