Middlesbrough FC

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Southgate hails Downing form

16 Feb 2009 - 11:39:35

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Middlesbrough boss Gareth Southgate has paid tribute to winger Stewart Downing for his attitude since the January transfer window passed.

The 24-year-old England international scored his first goal of the season in the 1-1 FA Cup fifth round draw at West Ham, with Southgate delighted by Downing's displays since a move to Spurs fell through.

He told the club's official website: "He's never been a problem for us. His attitude to things is great and he's a Middlesbrough lad who wants Middlesbrough to do well.

"He's frustrated as everyone is that we haven't been able to match other clubs in the transfer market, but that is the reality of the situation we have.

"His determination is to make sure we come out of the spell we've had."

Of Downing's strike against the Hammers, Southgate added: "It's an important moment for us and for him.

"He missed a couple of penalties earlier in the season that would have got him off the mark and the longer it goes on you start to doubt yourself.

"I thought he was very influential for us today. He has that ability to grab a game by the scruff of the neck and that's what he's got to do more."