Spurs Call Time On Downing?

Last updated : 08 January 2009 By Boro Mad

Chief executive Keith Lamb has again insisted the 24-year-old England winger will not be sold this month.

Lamb: "We again reiterate that no senior players will be leaving this football club during January. That is the end of the matter.

"Any ongoing media speculation is therefore meaningless, and we will not continue to respond to it."

Downing isn't out of the woods if he DOES decide to stay, because he could face a backlash from the stands at the Riverside Stadium should he fail to produce his best form.

With midfielder Gary O'Neil also understood to be keen to return to Portsmouth, Boro face an uncomfortable few weeks before the transfer window closes.

The Tees/Mackem derby will have both players under the spotlight, with Boro desperate for a win.

Gareth Southgate said back in December: "I don't feel under pressure, I once went nine games without a win."

If Boro fail to beat the mob from just up the A19 ... that will be ANOTHER winless run of nine games.