Downing not for sale - McLeish
Aston Villa boss Alex McLeish has insisted that winger Stewart Downing is not for sale after the club rejected an initial offer from Liverpool.
Aston Villa had turned down a £15million bid for Downing earlier this week, who has two years remaining on his contract.
"He had a magnificent season last year and really came to full maturity as a top player," McLeish told the Birmingham Mail.
"I understand why there's teams interested in him and that is what happens when you play well consistently.
"His performances last season were top drawer. That's why he's not for sale. The club don't want to sell him.
"I spoke to him briefly last week and I intend speaking to him again when all the lads are back in for training."
"I understand why there's teams interested in him and that is what happens when you play well consistently.
"His performances last season were top drawer. That's why he's not for sale. The club don't want to sell him.
"I spoke to him briefly last week and I intend speaking to him again when all the lads are back in for training."
