Rangers must avoid approach for Stewart Downing this summer

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Glasgow Rangers are reportedly interested in bringing Stewart Downing to Ibrox this summer.

It has recently been reported by Teesside Live that Rangers boss Steven Gerrard is interested in signing Stewart Downing in the summer when he will become a free agent.

Gerrard has not been afraid to put faith in experience, bringing in the likes of Gareth McAuley, Jermain Defoe and Steven Davis during his time at Ibrox. And Downing – who turns 35 in July – could perhaps become the latest name to move to Rangers during the twilight of his career if reports are correct.

On the one hand, Downing could have a role to play at Ibrox. He has played for the likes of Liverpool and England during his career, providing goals and assists throughout his time in the Premier League.

And just last season, he contributed seven assists in the Championship as Middlesbrough finished in the play-off places. This term however, has been a different story. And that is why Rangers should look elsewhere this summer.

Downing has scored two goals and contributed one assist in 31 league appearances. Boro are not the most adventurous side going forward, but that is still a disappointing tally for a player of his calibre.

And it may not be a move that pleases one player who has already agreed to join Rangers this summer. Jordan Jones agreed a pre-contract deal in January, and will be hoping that he can quickly jump to the front of the pecking order when he arrives at Ibrox.

Interestingly, Downing and Jones have crossed paths before. The 24-year-old was on Middlesbrough’s books when the former returned for a second spell in 2015.

One year later, Jones was released from the Riverside Stadium. Of course, the two players were at different stages of their careers and Downing cannot be held responsible for Boro letting Jones go, but his presence in the squad may have influenced the club’s decision.

Three years later, and reports hint that the pair could become teammate again. Jones should arguably have little to worry about regarding securing a place in the side. But given that Gerrard’s interest in Downing seems a little surprising anyway, perhaps the Gers boss sees the veteran having a much more prominent role than many would have expected – and that may prove a slightly frustrating situation for Jones.