Stewart Downing is set to leave Middlesbrough following the decision not to renew his contract which runs out at the end of June, as confirmed by the club.

He is joined by another long-serving member of the squad, Dimitrios Konstantopoulos, as well as Andy Lonergan and John Obi Mikel, whom only signed with the club in January.

The decision has been made without a manager in place, and it leaves 'Boro with only one recognised first-team goalkeeper in Darren Randolph.

The news will come as a shock to some. Downing was a ever-present this season for his hometown club, making 40 appearances in all competitions. However, he scored just two and provided a single assist, and at the age of 34 Middlesbrough believe the time is right to let him go.

Mikel also became a prominent member of the squad upon signing and even scored a goal, the second goal of his more than ten-year career, so somewhat of a collectors item.

Konstantopoulos made almost 100 appearances in his six years at the club, but at the age of 40 it may be time for the Greek to hang up his boots.

Lonergan meanwhile, was brought in on a one-year deal as a back-up to Randolph, he made 11 appearances and spent the latter part of the season on loan at Rochdale, so his release is little surprise.

The Verdict

Many 'Boro fans will be sad to see long-term players like Downing Konstantopoulos depart the club, particularly the former who many would consider a club legend. However, the time is right for them to leave and along with Mikel and Lonergan they didn't really make a big enough impression this season.

It is important for the new manager coming in to have players he wants at the club and these departures help to free up some of the budget. It can allow Middlesbrough to go after younger players who have a point to prove, inject some energy and pace into the side and build a more credible promotion challenge this time round.