Monday, September 05, 2011

Liverpool Move Already Paying Off For Downing

Stewart Downing believes his England career is already seeing the benefit of his summer move to Liverpool FC.

Downing has been in impressive form during the opening weeks of the season following his near-£20m arrival from Aston Villa during the transfer window.

The 27-year-old last week revealed a determination to make a greater mark on the international stage after admitting his time with England had previously felt peripheral.

And after playing an integral part in the 3-0 win for Fabio Capello’s side in Friday’s Euro 2012 qualifier in Bulgaria, Downing is confident his prospects can only improve while at Anfield.

“I feel that I am an England player and my aim always must be to start games at this level,” said the winger.

“I have joined a terrific club. I am really enjoying myself at Liverpool and playing under a great manager like Kenny Dalglish can only help me get even better.

“It's been a good start to the season – both with Liverpool and now England.

“There is a good mixture of youth and experience in this England side and the signs are good for the future after what we did in Bulgaria.”

Downing will hope to retain his starting role in tomorrow’s Wembley qualifier against Wales, where victory would take Capello’s men to the brink of qualification for next summer’s finals in Poland and Ukraine.

Liverpool team-mate Andy Carroll is vying for a recall up front alongside Wayne Rooney after missing out in Sofia.

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