STEWART DOWNING has made a premature return to Middlesbrough, and a frustrated Sunderland boss Mick McCarthy last night paid tribute to the young winger.

Downing's loan, in its second month, was not due to expire until December 29 - meaning he was eligible to play in the Black Cats' next four Division One fixtures.

But due to injuries on Teesside ahead of tomorrow's visit of Charlton Athletic to the Riverside, the 19-year-old has been recalled by Boro boss Steve McClaren as cover.

The news comes as a blow to Sunderland who have been delighted with the youngster's skills down the left wing.

He grabbed his third goal in six appearances for McCarthy's men in scintillating fashion during the 1-1 draw with Coventry City on Monday night.

And the Sunderland boss admits he would welcome Downing back to Wearside in a flash if the opportunity arises.

"I spoke to Steve and he suggested he might do it over a week ago," said McCarthy. "We have had two games out of him since then so that's been nice.

"I'm sick about it but I'm also very pleased that he has been here because he has done well for us.

"He's done everything and more that we expected from him. He's got a bit of pace and he's keen to learn.

"We are very sad to lose him. If there is a chance of us getting him back at any stage then we would love to have him back. He's gone back down there and that's the position we are in."

McClaren insists he had little choice in ending the player's loan agreement because of selection problems.

Brazilian Juninho is doubtful with a hamstring niggle, while his fellow countryman Doriva is also struggling with an ankle injury.

And McClaren has been delighted with the performances of Downing since he made the short trip to Boro's North-East neighbours.

He said: "I'm bringing Stewart back because we need cover at the moment. Several players are having treatment and we have doubts for Saturday's game.

"Stewart has done well at Sunderland and we are grateful that they have provided him with the opportunity to play games, but we need him back here."

Bizarrely, Downing returns having scored as many goals in his six appearances for Sunderland as any Boro striker has all season.

His impressive form in Division One has led to suggestions that Wigan Athletic - a side who he scored a late penalty against earlier this month - have made a bid for the England youth international.

And Wigan boss Paul Jewell said last night: "I can confirm that I've put in a bid for a player and that I'm now waiting for the club to come back to me.

"I don't want to say anymore than that because that's not the way I feel business should be done, but we'll now have to wait and see."

As well as Downing, Manchester City's Darren Huckerby has also been linked with a switch to the Latics.

Norwich boss Nigel Worthington has confirmed that loan striker Huckerby will return to Manchester City after Saturday's home game against Cardiff.

Huckerby has spent three months on loan at Carrow Road, scoring five goals for the Canaries and had been willing to take a cut in wages to stay.

But the club are unable to meet his financial demands and Worthington said: ''It will be Darren's last game on Saturday and he's done exceptionally well for us."

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