Is Woodgate The Judas Tempting Downing South?

Last updated : 05 January 2009 By Boro Mad
And reports from North London claim Woodgate has influenced Downing to hand in the transfer request telling him that the streets of London are paved with gold.

Can Downing fulfil his ambitions on Teesside?

Personally, I cannot see what Spurs can give the Teeside-born winger that Boro cannot.

Downing was happy to sign a new contract, so what ... or WHO ... has given him itchy feet?

The Mirror suggests: "Downing may have given into the greed that surrounds most footballers these days.

"His agent might be the instigator in the transfer saga that has been ongoing for the last two years.

"I can't see Stewart Downing joining a club like Spurs to further his career.
"The North London side sit just above Middlesbrough in the league.

"The only way Downing will improve as a player is if he plays in the Champions League, something that Spurs will not be able to offer in the next few seasons."