STEWART DOWNING was a relieved man after the final whistle on Saturday but is determined to not be in the same position come next season.

It's been a frustrating campaign at times for Boro, who missed several opportunities to secure Premier League status before the 2-0 win over Portsmouth.

"It's definitely been a testing season," said the 23-year-old. "It's not nice when you're getting beaten two or three times on the trot and that doesn't breed much confidence.

"I think the lads have done ever so well sticking in there, we've dug deep and got some good results.

"It was a big game but we should never have put ourselves in that position. There have been plenty of games which we should have won, especially at home.

"But we were in that situation for a reason and I'm just glad we're out of it."

Boro produced an efficient all round performance to dispose of the FA Cup finalists and complete a double over Harry Redknapp's men.

"The pleasing thing is that we didn't switch off. We kept going and got the two goals with two different set pieces against a strong side.

"That's not been the case in recent weeks so I'm glad we put it right without hanging on at the end."

The England international reserved some special praise for his friend Chris Riggott, who was called back from Stoke City at the 11th hour.

"He's a good lad, a good leader and the type of person we want here," Downing said.

"He's come in, quietly got on with it, not kicked up a fuss and I thought he was the best player on the pitch."

And with Afonso Alves and Tuncay continuing to link up well up front, Downing believes there could be plenty of goals on their way next season.

"Tunny went through a tough period not scoring but he's on fire now and I hope he can start setting me up for a change!

"Every club has competition for striking places but we haven't really had that in the past.

"Next season, having with those two together with Mido and Jeremie, means that will definitely not be the case."