Downing hints at Boro exit

My Account
Logout

Create an Evening Standard Account

Use your social network

Save time by using your existing account to sign in to Evening Standard

We'll never share your information or post anything to your account without your permission

Welcome! Sign in here

Use your social network

Save time by using your existing account to sign in to Evening Standard

We'll never share your information or post anything to your account without your permission

Forgot your password ?

Registration

* indicates fields that are mandatory

Email *

Password *

Confirm Password *

First name *

Surname *

Postcode *

Country *

Mobile phone number

Username *

Gender *

Year of birth *

When you sign up...

You will have access to all our online competitions, discounted offers and can post comments on our site.

You will also receive The Weekender newsletter sent every Thursday - it’s full of fantastic offers and ideas for the weekend. You can update your email preferences in your account page when you log in.

Other newsletters and emails

Homes & Property Newsletter - Yes I want to receive the weekly email with all the latest news on property in the capital

Occasionally we would also like to send you relevant emails detailing specific offers either from ourselves or carefully selected partners. If you would prefer not to receive these then please tick the appropriate boxes below. We will never pass on your details.

I do not want to receive additional offers and information from the Evening Standard

I do not want to receive additional offers and information sent by Evening Standard on behalf of carefully selected partners

Terms and Conditions

* I have read, understood and agree to be bound by the terms and conditions of Evening Standard

Registration

Mail Sent for Registration Confirmation.

A confirmation email has been sent. Please activate your account by clicking on the activation link sent in your mail box.

Despite being linked with a move to 2005 Champions League winners Liverpool over the summer, Downing still remains a Boro player, but admitted the lure of playing in the Champions League is tempting.

The midfielder told the Evening Gazette: "If there are big clubs interested in you it is flattering and sometimes you are tempted.

"My mates are big Boro fans and they obviously want me to be at Middlesbrough for all my career, and if we become a top team, a Champions League team, then there would be no question about going.

"But if we don't eventually make that step, then one day I might have to make that decision. It's an important couple of years for me.

"I think every player likes to try something new in their career and I'm no different."

Downing, who has said he would find it hard to leave the club where he has spent all of his professional career, signed a new five-year contract in February and Middlesbrough manager Gareth Southgate has insisted the England winger is not for sale.