Middlesbrough FC

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• Manager:Tony Mowbray

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Boro reiterate Downing stance

29 Jul 2008 - 11:46:12

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Middlesbrough boss Gareth Southgate has once again said that he has no intention of selling England international Stewart Downing.

The 24-year-old was quoted at the weekend as saying he would leave the club if they did not become a force in the Premier League despite penning a new five-year deal with the Teessiders earlier this year.

Aston Villa, Liverpool and Tottenham have all been linked with the winger, but Southgate said: "There's inevitably huge speculation at this time of year.

"We know how fortunate we are to have Stewart Downing as part of this club.

"Last season, when Stewart and David Wheater signed contracts, they were the most important signings for us. We aren't looking to move Stewart on. As a manager you get used to dealing with speculation.

"We haven't had any calls about Stewart Downing and nor would we welcome any. He's very settled.

"He's an ambitious player and the set-up here is geared towards making sure he feels he can fulfil his ambitions with us. He's positive about everything. We're determined to keep hold of him."