Downing signs new Boro deal

Stewart Downing has handed his club Middlesbrough a major boost by finally agreeing terms on a new contract. The winger had been in discussions with the club for several months and has committed to the club until 2013.

The 23-year-old told the club's official website: "This is where I want to be.

"It's my hometown club, but I had told them that I didn't want us to stand still. Signing Alves shows how ambitious we are.

"There's been talk about other clubs, but I never wanted out. This is what I've wanted all along.

"I'd like to thank the fans for the support they have given me.

"They could have really got on my back in recent weeks in response to all that was being said. But they have been great."