Downing returns to Middlesbrough

Downing, a product of the Middlesbrough youth academy, stepped down a level from the Premier League after agreeing a four-year contract with the English second tier outfit.

The 30-year-old is reported to have cost £5.5 million, which could rise to £7 million if Middlesbrough are promoted.

Middlesbrough narrowly missed out on promotion to the Premier League last season after a 2-0 defeat against Norwich in the play-off final and the signing of Downing is a significant statement of intent to their promotion rivals.

"It's an amazing signing for us. He's more than just a player," Middlesbrough boss Aitor Karanka told the club's website.

"Nobody expected him to come here, but he wants to be here, and is completely committed to the club and the team."

Downing, capped 35 times by England, left Middlesbrough for Aston Villa in 2009 before moving on to Liverpool.

He joined the Hammers in 2013 and made 37 league appearances last season.