Craig Liddle has told of his delight at having Stewart Downing involved with the Middlesbrough Academy set-up, with the club legend taking his first steps into coaching.

Downing has returned to Boro in a part-time role, working with the Academy age groups.

He's one of several former players now in coaching roles with the club, alongside the likes of Jonathan Woodgate, Grant Leadbitter, Lee Cattermole, Malcolm Christie and Joe Fryer.

Club legend Downing is the most successful player to ever come out of Boro's Academy, making more than 400 appearances for his hometown club and playing 35 times for England.

Academy chief Craig Liddle is delighted to welcome Downing and other former players into the Boro coaching set-up.

He told the club website: "It's great to see these former players back and coaching.

"They know the club and what it's all about. They have a wealth of experience and knowledge and that can only benefit the young players here.

"In Stewy's case, he has been through our Academy and had a tremendous career, and we're delighted to have him working with our youngsters."

Downing told BBC Tees: "I bumped into Craig Liddle and he suggested I come in and give it a try and if I liked it, great he'd get me involved.

"I've loved it, the 15s and 16s are a good group, the lads have been told they're going into full-time football next year so it's serious football for them now. It's about winning, improving and getting better."

READ MORE:

Middlesbrough backroom team connection, 'smart' appointments & 'bright future'

Kieran Scott outlines Boro's plans for January - and the type of deals they'll target

Michael Carrick's Paddy McNair praise after 'good chat' and position decision