Middlesbrough face a tall order on Wednesday when they come up against footballing giants Manchester United, but Stewart Downing seems to think Middlesbrough have every chance of pulling off a shock on Wednesday.

Downing is confident ahead of the United clash
Downing is confident ahead of the United clash

It is true that Middlesbrough have nothing to lose at Old Trafford and with a contingent of 10,000 fans cheering them on, anything is possible for the Teessiders.

Downing personally can't wait to lock horns with Van Gaal's side on Wednesday and is confident of pulling off the shock.

Karanka's men will be full of confidence following their morale boosting 3-1 win over Wolves ending a difficult run of results for the club, and players will take heart from their remarkable FA Cup victory against Manchester City last year.

Speaking to Gazette Live, Downing said: "All the pressure will be on them but there used to that" - something which will make a nice change for Boro as they are rarely underdogs in Championship games.

Middlesbrough are not going to Old Trafford to make up the numbers and will likely provide a very stern test for United, and with confidence flowing through the veins of the players, a shock could be on the cards.

Downing continued: “It’s a mental challenge as well as a physical one, but we’ve got nothing to fear. They’re not the Man United from a few years ago, but they’re still a good team."

"But so are we - we’ve also got Premier League players here, and I think we’ve got a great chance.” Downing is indeed an example of the Premier League class Middlesbrough have and his performance will be essential to whether Middlesbrough can pull off the shock or not.

Downing knows that United are not the force they once were but the home form this season matches any United side of any era, as they are undefeated at home and have only leaked two goals.

Also, United are likely to play a strong side knowing that the Capital One Cup is their best chance at silverware and also Van Gaal will not underestimate Middlesbrough which Pellegrini did last year.

So..... What do you think Boro fans? Can Boro pull off a shock on Wednesday night? Leave thoughts and opinions below!