Downing - We can test Spurs

Villa ace looking to bring Tottenham back down to earth

By Richard Bailey   Last updated: 27th November 2009   Subscribe to RSS Feed

Downing - We can test Spurs

Downing: Set for home debut

Related links

Teams

Players

Also see

Stewart Downing believes Aston Villa have the players to hurt Tottenham and bring them crashing down to earth.

Spurs demolished Wigan 9-1 last week but the former Middlesbrough man is confident Villa can get a result against their top-four rivals.

The winger made his long-awaited debut last week, coming off the bench against Burnley after a frustrating seven months on the sidelines with a broken foot.

The 25-year-old topped up his match fitness in midweek with a 75-minute run-out for the reserves and is hoping to make his Villa Park bow on Saturday.

"It's great to be back involved and playing football again. It beats slogging away in the gym," he told Aston Villa TV.

"The injury was obviously frustrating but I think what helped me were the surroundings of a new club, new people. The rehab has been great and the lads have been super with me.

"It was strange joining a club when you're injured but I am ready to play now. I feel fit and hopefully I can be involved again at the weekend.

"I have had to be patient. I couldn't have been any more patient in fact. With injuries, it's vital you don't rush them because you could easily get a setback, which is the last thing you need.

"But everything has gone well and the more I play now the better. I am feeling good and hopefully I can be involved again against Tottenham."

Excitement

Downing has been praised by his manager Martin O'Neill this week for his attitude during his time out and the left-sider is excited about going head-to-head with Spurs.

"I am excited about this weekend but then again everyone is. We are both looking for that top-four spot. They are playing well and we're doing well too," he added.

"We have been doing well at home and I'm sure our lads are positive and relishing the challenge. I am confident we can get a result.

"It was a great result for them last weekend, a bit of a freak result but I don't think they'll be scoring nine against us.

"We'll test them definitely because we have players who can score goals and who are very dangerous.

"I am sure Tottenham are aware of that. I am sure it will be a cracking game. Hopefully we'll get a result. We're all looking forward to it."