Downing hoping to step up rehab as Spurs keep tabs on Middlesbrough ace

Published: 29 Jun 2009 - 17:38:25

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Downing hoping to step up rehab as Spurs keep tabs on Middlesbrough ace

Middlesbrough's £15m-rated winger Stewart Downing is hoping to be given permission to step up his recovery from foot surgery next week. The 24-year-old England international underwent an operation on May 22 to repair the damage he suffered in a challenge with Aston Villa midfielder Stiliyan Petrov in the penultimate game of last season. Downing, who is seeking a move back to the Barclays Premier League after Boro's relegation last season, hopes to be able to take the next step in his rehabilitation programme after seeing a specialist next Tuesday. Spurs have been linked with the player but what Downing is told next week could hold the key to his immediate future. Manager Gareth Southgate said: 'We are very pleased with Stewart's progress. He underwent a serious foot operation, but he is determined to come back stronger and fitter as soon as he can. 'He is due to see a specialist in London on July 7 and we expect himto be given the go-ahead to step up his rehabilitation from there. 'So far, it's been as much about resting and allowing the foot to recover from the operation, but I know he will be keen to focus on some more serious rehab and make real strides towards getting fit.'