Downing asks Middlesbrough for transfer

MIDDLESBROUGH, England (AP) -- Middlesbrough rejected a written transfer request by Stewart Downing after turning down an improved bid from Tottenham for the England winger.

A Boro player his entire career and born in the town, the 24-year-old Downing signed a five-year contract in February but asked for a move, apparently spurred by Tottenham's efforts to sign him.

"We received a written transfer request from Stewart this morning," Middlesbrough chief executive Keith Lamb said. "It was considered before being rejected.

"Prior to receiving the transfer request, we received an improved offer for Stewart from Tottenham. We immediately rejected this offer and informed Tottenham that Stewart Downing is not for sale and any further interest they have in the player will not be entertained."

But that may not end the matter. Tottenham could make a big offer for Downing, whose father said the player was unhappy that the club had not invested in new players.

"Stewart's been frustrated since the summer, really," Stewart Downing Sr. said on Monday. "When he signed his new contract he was assured that there would be significant investment in the squad. He feels that the club haven't matched those expectations. He's also frustrated that the team is once again struggling in the Premier League.

"Obviously as a Middlesbrough lad, he's thought long and hard about the decision to hand in a transfer request, and he also hopes the fans will understand his reasons for doing so."

Boro owner Steve Gibson, whose team is one place above the relegation zone, confirmed that he had turned down Spurs' bid for the winger who has played 21 times for England without scoring.

"I have spoken to (Tottenham chairman) Daniel Levy and told him categorically that there interest is not welcome," Gibson said before news of the transfer request emerged. "I've also told him that we will not entertain any further offers for Stewart or, for that matter, any other senior member of our squad."

Despite a League Cup triumph under Steve McClaren four years ago and reaching the UEFA Cup final the following season, Boro has never been close to challenging the traditional contenders in the Premier League title race.

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