New Aston Villa signing Stewart Downing reveals his ambitions

Jul 17 2009 by Bill Howell, Birmingham Mail

STEWART Downing revealed his club record equalling £12 million move to Villa was driven by a double desire: to play a starting role at the World Cup next summer and to play for Martin O’Neill.

Downing followed Luke Young in swapping the Riverside for Villa Park, a journey that used to be frequently taken a decade ago but in the other direction.

“I hope the Boro fans will understand that I’m ambitious and want to win things. This move gives me a chance of that,” the 22 times capped winger said.

“I definitely want to play at next year’s World Cup, so that’s my aim – to get back to full fitness, get back playing and get myself in the England team for the World Cup.

“I don’t just want to go there to sit it out this time either. I want to be in the team. I loved the last World Cup, it was brilliant, but I want to play a bigger part this time.

“I have to be with a good Premier League side if I want to do that.”

Downing was part of the Carling Cup winning squad at Boro and reached the UEFA Cup final.

He continued: “Boro mean a lot to me but I’m ambitious to achieve things and fulfill my potential so I need to be in the Premier League.”

Downing said his mind was set on a move as soon as he met O’Neill.

“I am really pleased to be joining Villa. It’s a massive football club with good ambition,’’ he said.