Boro winger Stewart Downing says he was always confident that his team’s ability would shine bright in time, after what was admittedly a slow start to the season initially.

Downing’s side are on a run of three consecutive fixtures as they head into their massive game against Leeds United this weekend, and the former Liverpool midfielder says despite the club’s poor start to proceedings this season they have shown what they are capable of as they sit 5th in the Championship table.

The former England international says he always suspected that it would take time for Garry Monk’s new side to get the ball rolling and become the force that everyone said they would be, but with their recent form it looks as if they are now ready to launch a serious challenge for promotion.

“Three wins have put us in the top six, although we have always said that it’s not how you start, it’s how you finish in May,” said Downing.

“There have been murmurings around – we aren’t playing well, whatever – but once it settles, I think you can see the quality of our team.

“Look at the players who weren’t even involved against Sunderland. That’s the quality we have. Everyone is fighting to stay in the team.”
[Quotes via Northern Echo]