Stewart Downing has said that Boro are aiming for a top seven finish in the Premier League this season.

The 1-1 home draw against West Ham on Saturday left Boro lying in 8th place in the table and the England international winger is hoping that they can remain in contention for a European place finish as the season progresses.

"I think we've been in this position a thousand times and we've lost control of it," he told the Evening Gazette.

"Like I've said before, my aim at the start of the season was to finish in the top seven.

"I believe we can do that."