Downing returns for Boro

Middlesbrough winger Stewart Downing finally made his long-awaited return from a five-month lay-off after undergoing knee surgery for today’s Barclays Premiership clash with Wigan at The Riverside.

Boro manager Steve McClaren restored Downing to the starting line-up, where he was joined by captain Gareth Southgate – who had missed the last two games with an ankle injury.