STILIAN PETROV has issued an apology to Stewart Downing after the winger’s playing days at Middlesbrough were brought to a premature end.

Downing, likely to be sold this summer with Liverpool, Tottenham, Everton and Aston Villa leading the chase, has sustained ligament damage to his ankle which could require surgery after an 18th minute collision with Petrov.

The Boro captain had to be carried down the tunnel on a stretcher, holding his head in frustration as the home supporters gave him a standing ovation.

It was clear that the Teesside supporters were aware of the situation, with the 24-year-old unlikely to wear the red and white shirt again.

And more immediate concerns for Middlesbrough is that Downing will not figure at West Ham next Sunday, when there is still a slim chance that an impressive victory could keep Premier League football at the Riverside.

Petrov, whose studs collided with the Boro man’s right boot as the pair chased for the ball, said: “It was an accident and no-one likes to see players carried off, especially a young talent fighting to help Middlesbrough stay up and I hope it’s not too serious.

“It would be a big loss for Middlesbrough if he wasn’t fit for their last game so I wish him all the best and hope he can play next week.

“My boot landed flush on top of his foot, I caught him in full stride but it was accidental.”

With Europa Cup football already guaranteed at Villa Park next season, there are fears at the bottom end of the table that the Villans will not be in full flow when Newcastle head there next Sunday.

But, knowing about the importance of the fixture in the relegation fight, Petrov has tried to reassure Middlesbrough supporters that Aston Villa are desperate to end the season on a high.

The Bulgarian, knowing that Everton have now overtaken them in the race to finish behind the top four, said: “We want to finish fifth so we can say we have improved on last season’s sixth placed finish.”