Lamb opens door for Spurs

Downing: Spurs interest invited

Spurs might find it difficult to re-open negotiations on Stewart and it wouldn't be the easiest negotiations from their point of view.

Lamb on Downing
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Middlesbrough chief executive Keith Lamb has invited Spurs to re-open negotiations for England international winger Stewart Downing.

Boro are likely to lose their long-serving 24-year-old wide-man this summer following their relegation to the Championship.

Spurs infuriated Boro in January with their latest move for Downing which the North East side claim unsettled the winger, who has played 23 times for England.

However, despite the poor relations between the clubs, Lamb would speak to Spurs should they wish to revive their interest in their injured star.

Sale not vital

"I wouldn't rule anyone out and anyone in," said Lamb on Downing's potential suitors. "Stewart's sale is not vital.

"Spurs might find it difficult to re-open negotiations on Stewart and it wouldn't be the easiest negotiations from their point of view.

"But I would certainly take their call."

Downing is currently out of action after being stretchered off in Boro's penultimate game of last season against Aston Villa with a foot injury.

Delay

The problem is thought to be delaying any move away from the Riverside, but Lamb has no doubts that the winger will come back fitter and stronger.

"We are disappointed he is injured because it is important he gets back to playing football as quickly as possible," he added.

"It could be between four and six months and Stewart believes he will be back sooner rather than later.

"He has a record as a quick healer. Stewart will work night and day to get back to full fitness."