Tuesday, December 20, 2011

Downing Shrugs Off Boos

Stewart Downing has brushed off being booed upon his return to Aston Villa and believes Liverpool's 2-0 win justified his decision to move clubs in the summer.

The England winger quit Villa for a £20million switch to Anfield after handing in a transfer request following two seasons in the Midlands.

He returned to Villa Park for the first time on Sunday and was jeered by home fans, but Downing expected as much and feels he answered his critics.

"I knew I would get booed and get some stick but that wasn't a problem for me," Downing told the Liverpool Echo.

"I was just focused on ensuring we got a result and I think they gave up after about 50 or 60 minutes and turned on their own team.

"We were by far the better team. I think it proved a point in terms of showing why I wanted to come to Liverpool. It wasn't to do with money, I've joined a top team.

"Just look at the players we've got on the bench who can't get a game, that shows how strong the squad is. This was the right move for me at the right time.

"I enjoyed my time at Villa, it's a great club with great people, but you move on in football, that's the way it is.

"It wasn't about me coming back, it was about the team winning and this was one of the places we needed to come to get three points."

Liverpool drew level on points with fifth-placed Arsenal and now face Wigan on Wednesday ahead of a busy fortnight.

Downing has found himself in and out of the side in recent weeks and admits no player can be certain of their place in the starting XI, although he appreciates having a strong squad is vital to Liverpool's season.

"We've got a good squad with a lot of people fighting for places," he said. "It's a headache for the manager but that's what you want. Everyone is going to be needed, it's a big period in the season for us.

"We've got some tough games but they are winnable and hopefully we will pick up maximum points."

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