Spurs: Downing bid is final

Tottenham insist they will not be dragged into a war of words with Middlesbrough over their latest offer for England winger Stewart Downing.

Spurs have lodged a bid for Downing, which is understood to be £8million rising to £10million based on appearances at White Hart Lane, and coach Martin Jol confirmed their move after his side's 2-0 home defeat by Everton. Boro chief executive Keith Lamb criticised Tottenham's offer as 'derisory' and claimed they had enquired about signing Aaron Lennon in return.

A spokesperson for Spurs said: "When asked, we merely confirmed that we had made a formal bid for the player. We have no further comment to make."

Tottenham's bid remains on the table and Jol insists this will be their final offer for the player.

He said: "Hopefully they will accept it. This is our highest and final bid."