The 21-year-old Middlesbrough winger won a place in the squad after battling back from a serious injury that ruled him out for four months until January 2006. A gifted left-footer he burst on to the scene during the 2004-05 campaign as he helped Boro to secure a UEFA Cup spot. His return to the Boro side coincided with a return to form for Steve McClaren's side as they won their way through to the final of the UEFA Cup and the semi-final of the FA Cup. Downing won seven England Under-21 caps and made his debut for the senior side in the friendly international with Holland in February 2005.