Stewart Downing has trained his sights on securing an England
recall.
The classy winger produced a starring show in Middlesbrough's 5-1
mauling of Bolton on Saturday and he is eager to mirror the form on
the international stage.
Downing endured a disappointing end to last year on the
international front, as he was axed for England's trip to Croatia
following a below-par display against FYR Macedonia.
He was not alone in underperforming against the Macedonians, but he
has knuckled down on Teesside and Boro are starting to reap the
rewards.
After his starring display against The Trotters, Downing made it
clear that he is intent on winning a recall for next month's
friendly with Spain.
"What happened before is not going to stop me wanting to be
involved with England again," said Downing.
"I thought I did okay at the World Cup but the European
Championship is now the priority and I'm hoping to be selected for
the friendly with Spain next month."
Boro impressed many observers in the win over Bolton and Downing
believes they have to continue that form if they are to stand a
chance of keeping hold of Jonathan Woodgate in the summer.
Woodgate joined Boro on loan from Real Madrid last year, but it is
unclear what the future holds for the defensive star.
"You can do all the talking you want but to get him to stay you
have to keep playing the way we did today," stated Downing.