Afonso Alves sees his success at Middlesbrough linked to the service he receives from winger Stewart Downing.

The Brazil striker told Boro's website: "Stewart is a young player but he already has a lot of experience and of course is a full international with England.

"He can clearly cross the ball very well and I'm looking forward to playing alongside him more, as I am with all the players.

"If I am starting games regularly then I am confident I will score goals. If Stewart or my other team-mates can help me do that then that will be good for me and for the team."