Middlesbrough’s comeback season in the Premier League has been a letdown so far mostly due to their dismal attacking form. Now they have further reasons to be concerned as talkSPORT claim that Boro star Stewart Downing could be on his way out of the Riverside Stadium. The 32-year-old has failed to land a first-team place for himself in Aitor Karanka’s side this campaign and is likely to be shipped out on loan for the remainder of the season as per Aitor Karanka.
Here are three possible destinations of the English international winger.
Newcastle United
The Magpies’ season this time around has been a strong one, barring the recent slump in form. At one point this season, Rafa’s boys looked unbeatable and it seemed that their way back to the Premier League was more than certain. However, Brighton have made the perfect use of Newcastle’s slump in form and have leapfrogged ahead of the Tyneside outfit in the table. An experienced winger like Downing can make a big difference at St. James’ Park and Benitez should make this deal happen at any cost.
Burnley
Burnley are doing quite well in the Premier League this campaign but their squad strength is very much limited, especially on the flanks. Downing is any day a much better option than the players Burnley have at their disposal right now on the flanks. George Boyd and Jóhann Berg Guðmundsson mostly play on the flanks for the Clarets and Downing, with his immense experience and quality, could prove to be a big upgrade on both of them.
Sean Dyche should target more experienced players to make his Burnley side more competitive and Downing is a player who can do that.
Sunderland
A club who are struggling with very limited resources and an injury-crisis mostly in the attacking department, Sunderland should ideally target a few loan signings and if a player of Downing’s calibre is available, Moyes should make use of it. Downing is a proven Premier League campaigner and a player who can regularly create chances for the side.
A deadly crosser of the ball and someone who can play really well when deployed in a central role, Downing could be the answer to the Black Cats’ injury problems. Especially with the likes of Duncan Watmore injured, Downing could come in handy for Moyes amidst his team’s relegation battle.
