Middlesbrough boss Gareth Southgate is happy to have tied up some of the club's emerging stars to long-term contracts, with David Wheater and Stewart Downing leading the way.

Downing in particular has produced some of his best form yet since signing a new five-year deal to end speculation that he could leave his home-town club.

The 23-year-old has eight goals to his name so far this season and his tied with Tuncay, who drew level with his 53rd-minute strike against Pompey, in the leading scorer stakes.

Southgate, who played alongside Downing during the latter stages of his career, has admitted in the past that the midfielder perhaps did not know how good he could be. However, he is confident he is now fulfilling his potential and has become a key member of the side.

Southgate said: "Stewart has been outstanding throughout the year. He's gone on to another level in terms of his performances.

"He is delivering away from home as well now, which hasn't always been the case in my time here. He has eight goals from midfield, which is a good return for a wide player, and he works his socks off for the team."