Tottenham's Harry Redknapp denies any transfer wrongdoing
Their schedule was congested by remaining in the UEFA Cup and losing the Carling Cup final on penalties to Manchester United on Sunday.
"If I was Sunderland I would fancy playing us on Saturday because we've have had a cup final, extra-time and a midweek game on Wednesday," Redknapp said.
"I think they see it as the chance to play us on the back of six games in 17 days."
He added: "I think the thing with Kenwyne, Sunderland encouraged the Jones situation as much as Tottenham did at that time."
Redknapp is naturally wary of the threat Downing will pose, with Spurs still in the thick of relegation trouble after missing a week of league action to play at Wembley.
"He is a good player and that is why I was interested in him," Redknapp said.
"He played wide left on Saturday against Liverpool. They played Martin Skrtel at right-back, where he had never played before. He got a chasing."
Spurs are looking to bounce back from their Wembley disappointment. Redknapp did not allow his players to unwind with a night out after the final, given the importance of the Boro game.
Even if Spurs ensure survival, Redknapp will not be encouraging big nights of celebration.
Interestingly, Giovani dos Santos has only started two games since being pictured worse for wear at the Spurs Christmas party.
"Nobody but nobody was allowed to even look at a glass of wine or any kind of alcohol after the final," Redknapp said.
"I've got no time really for drinking in football. I don't see any reason why footballers should have a drink.
"The rewards are so fantastic now they have to look after themselves. It's a great career, they have to dedicate themselves. They can have 10 years of pure dedication to be at the top of their game."
Meanwhile, Redknapp has urged Spurs to give Ledley King a job for life, while he is playing and after he retires. The Spurs skipper has a chronic knee problem and cannot play matches in quick succession.
"You'd like to think he'll be part of this club for many years to come - as a player and then who knows from there," Redknapp said.
King played 120 minutes at Wembley so will miss the clash against Boro.
Robbie Keane, Wilson Palacios, Pascal Chimbonda, Fraizer Campbell and Carlo Cudicini are back in the squad after being ineligible to face United. Alan Hutton is still out but is set to start full training in two weeks.
Redknapp has to choose between Cudicini and Heurelho Gomes in goal.
"They've both done well and I've been pleased with both of them," Redknapp said. "It will be a tough call but a good decision to make because I have two good goalkeepers in good form."
