Downing´s Boro exit fear
Middlesbrough winger Stewart Downing says the summer signing of Boudewijn Zenden´s made him consider his future at The Riverside.
The 20-year-old, who has been revelation for Boro this season, was concerned that the Dutchman´s permanent deal with the North East club would see him compete with Zenden on the left-hand side.
However, Boro boss Steve McClaren has used the new England cap on the left wing while Zenden has been moved into a central midfield role.
Downing is delighted that both he and the former Chelsea player have found places in the starting XI this term.
" We play in the same position and I thought Bolo was certain to play ahead of me," Downing said.
" But in the end, it hasn´t been a problem as Bolo and I have proved we can play in the same team."
Despite making his long-awaited appearance for Sven Goran Eriksson´s Three Lions earlier this month, Downing added that he still has to prove his worth with his club first.
" I don´t think I´ve made it with Middlesbrough yet, let alone England," Downing added.
" There´s so much I´ve got to work on and if I don´t perform for Boro, I know only too well that I will be out of the team.
" Even from the half hour I played against Holland, I could see that international football is a step up from the club game.
" The technical ability was very good and so was the fitness level. It made me realise that I must get stronger in all areas.
" Hopefully, I will get another chance with England. I don´t want to be a one-cap wonder."
> s´il part, j´espère qu´on sera sur le coup, j´ai vu quelques matches de Boro en UEFA, il est plutot doué.