Downing signs new Boro contract

The 23-year-old, who had over two years remaining on his previous deal, had been linked with a move to Tottenham during the January transfer window.

Downing's decision to stay with his hometown club comes as a major boost to manager Gareth Southgate.

It was feared that Downing may leave the club in pursuit of European football.

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But speaking last week Downing revealed that the arrival of £12m striker Afonso Alves in January convinced him to stay at the Riverside.

"I had told the club I didn't want to stand still. Signing Alves shows how ambitious we are," he said.

"This is where I want to be. The chairman [Steve Gibson] has proved again just how much he wants this club to go forward."

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