GARETH Southgate has reassured teenage winger Adam Johnson he has a bright future at the Riverside, despite England international Stewart Downing apparently standing between him and a regular place.

The 19-year-old was handed a rare start against Watford on Saturday and tormented the Hornets defence for the full 90 minutes.

But it was only his 11th Middlesbrough appearance of a frustrating season for the left-sided player, who spent a difficult loan spell at Leeds United earlier in the campaign.

"Of all our young players we got more phone calls from clubs asking to take him on loan than for any other player," said Southgate, who had Downing and Johnson alternating on both wings against Watford.

"He had a spell at Leeds earlier this season . At the time they were struggling and it didn't quite work how we'd hoped.

"It's just about giving him enough football to keep him feeling involved and make sure he progresses at the right time. He has got talent but you have to nurture that properly."

Downing himself would welcome the pressure a consistent performing Johnson would put him under, believing the benefits to the Middlesbrough team are the only consideration.

Southgate showed on Saturday he is more than willing to play both his left-sided wingers, with Boro keen to attack more at home this term.

"He's (Johnson) been chomping at the bit to get his chance and it's been quite hard to get in the team - there's a lot of competition for places," said Downing.

"He's just got to carry on and keep playing like he did against Watford.

"That's what we need in every position - that competition for places.

"If people are just steady away in their position then it's not going to be good for the team. We need pressure and competition in every position."