Downing linked again to Spurs

As the transfer window approaches Spurs are once again being linked with a move for Stewart Downing and are ready to pay £11million.

Despite repeated assurances that he is not for sale, Spurs' supposed interest pops up with monotonous regularity every time a transfer window approaches. However this time it is claimed they are willing to spend £11m.

That may or may not be enough to tempt Boro into parting with the winger, who had his best game for England last week against Germany.

Boss Gareth Southgate would be reluctant to sell the product of the youth system, but at that sort of money and with a ready made replacement in the shape of England Under-21 international Adam Johnson, he could just be tempted.