Downing offers olive branch
30 Oct 2006 - 09:45:14
Middlesbrough winger Stewart Downing has tried to distance himself from quotes attributed to him at the weekend criticising England coach Steve McClaren.
The 22-year-old insists his comments were taken out of context and hopes they will not harm his chances of returning to the England fold.
Downing was dropped for the Euro 2008 qualifying defeat in Croatia after a poor display in the goalless draw against FYR Macedonia, and was quoted in the News of the World as saying: "I knew we were going to get criticism after the Macedonia game because we didn't win.
"But I thought it was a bit harsh when just two players were singled out - Wayne Rooney and myself.
"I explained to the manager that I wasn't happy and that if I was to be dropped other players should be as well. I know I shouldn't worry about other players but it's all for one and one for all. If one's dropped then the rest should be.
"Steve said he was changing the system - but I'd already played in that system for Middlesbrough in Europe."
Downing said on Monday: "I'd like to set the record straight following articles that appeared in some of the Sunday newspapers.
"Having agreed to do an interview to preview Middlesbrough's game at Manchester City, I instead faced a series of questions about England.
"I don't deny that the quotes attributed to me were accurate, but I was disappointed by the way what I said was sensationalised and taken out of context.
"I would like to make it clear that in no way did I intend to criticise Steve McClaren or offend any of my England tam-mates.
"The truth is that I was disappointed to be left out of the team for the game in Croatia, but I'm determined to bounce back and claim a regular place in the national side."