Downing to be downgraded to defence

LAST season Stewart Downing was set to be Liverpool’s supply line for £35m target man Andy Carroll – this season Downing is set to fight the likes of Jose Enrique for the left-back spot.
After a season of 36 league appearances, no assists and no goals – with the only statistic of real note being that Downing became the first Premier League player in seven years to miss three consecutive penalties – new boss Brendan Rogers is set to take drastic action.
He said: “I think it is a big possibility that he can play left back. If you look at the modern-day full-backs, Alba, Ashley Cole – Ashley Cole was a centre-forward.
“When Middlesbrough reached the Uefa Cup final against Sevilla, he played left-back on that run. Sometimes it can release the pressure on players. His job at the top end of the pitch is to create and score goals.
“Time will tell. I don’t like to just give up on players.”
In other news, Carroll has been given a security job, while Charlie Adam is to take up a new role in catering.