This article is part of Football League World’s ‘Rewind’ series, this content strand is where we rewind back to a particular moment at a club, assess the initial reaction from the fans, and then proceed to evaluate and reflect on whether fans were right to react in that way…

Following a solid return to life in the Championship last season, there were plenty around Blackburn Rovers who were hoping for a productive transfer window over the course of the summer, in order to give them the opportunity to build on that in the coming campaign.

The first signing Rovers made in a bid to do that was arguably something of a surprising one, as when the club announced the signing of Stewart Downing on a one-year deal in June.

Downing had been a free agent following his second departure from Middlesbrough at the end of last season, with his previous exploits with the likes of Liverpool and England highlighting the undoubted ability the midfielder possesses.

It was that ability, along with Downing's vast experience, that appeared to have a number of Blackburn fans excited, although others did appear concerned by the midfielder's age, when his arrival at Ewood Park was officially confirmed.

Despite some of those initial questions around Downing's age, it appears to be those who were optimistic about this signing, who have been proved right so far this season.

Perhaps somewhat unexpectedly, Downing has been a regular feature for Blackburn this season, starting all but one of their 11 Championship games this season, and with good reason.

Throughout his time on the pitch in a Rovers shirt, Downing has been one of Blackburn's outstanding performers throughout the course of the campaign.

Regardless of the fact that he is surely approaching the latter end of his career, Downing has put in a string of tireless performances, and so far, it certainly seems the veteran has retained the sort of ability required to match that commitment.

Operating in both a wide and central role within Rovers' midfield, Downing's range of passing has helped Blackburn to control and dictate games where possible, while his delivery from set-pieces has also proved hugely effective, with a pinpoint free-kick at Hull allowing Derrick Williams to head home the only goal of a welcome away win at the KCOM Stadium.

With Downing's role also giving him the opportunity some to pass on some of the knowledge of the game he has picked up to the likes of 21-year-old Lewis Travis - who has impressed alongside the veteran in recent weeks - it seems as though the benefits of bringing Downing to the club extend beyond simply the quality of his own performances.

It may have seemed something of an unlikely move when it was confirmed by Blackburn several months ago, but this is now a deal, that appears to have made perfect sense.

[freshpress-poll ]