As players begin to be snapped up by clubs across the EFL, Stewart Downing faces an uncertain future going into the summer.

The 34-year-old was one of four senior players to be let go by Middlesbrough following the conclusion of the 2018/19 campaign, after what turned out to be a disappointing season for the North East club who missed out on promotion to the Premier League.

It came as a somewhat surprise when Downing was let go by Boro - the winger has made over 400 appearances during two different spells with the club, but will now be on the lookout for his sixth club as a professional.

A player of Downing's quality and experience is likely to attract plenty of suitors over the course of the next couple of months, and at the age of 34, he is likely to want to keep playing at the highest level.

Here, we take a look at three potential destinations for Downing next term...

Move to Rangers

One potential destination for Downing could be to Steven Gerrard's Rangers, who have been linked with a move to land the free agent.

A lot is said about the SPFL and the lack of competition in Scotland, but a move to Ibrox will present Downing with an opportunity to win trophies in the latter stages of his career.

He is likely to be a regular if he signed for Gers, and he could be a real success under his former teammate.

Return to Sunderland

The Black Cats have recently been linked with a move to sign the winger, and he is certainly no stranger to the Stadium of Light faithful.

The 34-year-old made seven appearances for the North East club during a loan spell in 2003, where the winger was starting to make the grade in the game.

He would be an influential figure both on and off the pitch in Jack Ross' side's push for promotion in League One, and one final promotion on his CV could be a good prospect for him.

Move to Blackburn

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

As alluded to before, if Downing still wants to play at the highest level possible, then a move to Blackburn would be most desirable.

The Lancashire club have been linked with a move to sign the winger, with Tony Mowbray looking to reunite with the experienced wide-man.

He will know how to get the best out of Downing having managed him before, and a switch to Ewood Park could be a shrewd choice for him.