ENGLAND coach Sven-Goran Eriksson has singled out Middlesbrough's Stewart Downing as the cream of the Under-21 crop, and admitted he is on the brink of the full national side.

Downing has impressed with a string of top-class performances this term and he was on target last night in Boro's win over Egaleo

Eriksson revealed that he was well ware of the 20-year-old's rapid progress this season, and he was keeping a close eye on the left-sided midfielder.

The national side has seen a dearth of talent in that position - the last left-sided midfielders to play regularly were Chris Waddle and John Barnes.

Downing has in his favour the fact that club manager Steve McClaren is an England coach, and it now appears only a matter of time before he lands a spot in the full squad.

Eriksson was speaking to the www.thefa.com website of the possibilities for England's young stars breaking into the senior ranks, with Downing the focus of his comments.

Eriksson said: "It's quite possible - he's doing well for the Under-21s and for Middlesbrough.

"We haven't had that natural left midfielder for a long time, like a Beckham on the right side or a Shaun Wright-Phillips, so of course I look for that."

Downing has attracted the attention of Manchester United manager Sir Alex Ferguson on more than one occasion and added fuel to the speculation when he starred in the recent draw at Old Trafford.

He still has to cement a permanent spot in the Middlesbrough team, but recently McClaren has opted to play Bolo Zenden in central midfield or at left-back to accommodate the young winger.

Downing's recent form has drawn praise from both his manager and skipper, but McClaren and Gareth Southgate were quick to hand out a reality check.

Southgate said: "He's a bit of a throwback in that he's someone who's prepared to run at players.

"He's progressing really well but there's a lot of work for him still to do. People will push his cause because of the position he plays."