Middlesbrough manager Aitor Karanka has challenged former England winger Stewart Downing to show more 'fight' if he wants to play a part in the club’s relegation battle.
Karanka left out Downing and striker Patrick Bamford in his squad for Saturday's 2-0 home defeat in the FA Cup, confirming afterwards that Downing had been available for selection.
‘I always need 18 fighters in my team,’ said Karanka. ‘The players have to show me at the training ground every day they are ready to play and fight for this club.’
Karanka, who was assistant to close friend Jose Mourinho at Real Madrid, has a reputation for being firm and fell out with Downing last season when the club won promotion from The Championship.