Stewart Downing completes Middlesbrough return

Stewart Downing has finalised a switch to former side Middlesbrough, six years to the day he initially left the club.

The England international drops down a division to join the Championship outfit from West Ham United on a four-year deal, thought to be worth £7m if Boro are promoted.

Having left the Smoggies for Aston Villa in 2009, Downing's impressive displays earned him a move to Liverpool and further international recognition.

A spell at Upton Park then followed, but the 30-year-old has opted to move back to Teesside in order to achieve "something really special".

Downing has made 493 appearances in all competitions since making his professional debut in May 2002, including 37 games at West Ham United in the Premier League last term.