Johnson reveals future talks

Boro winger Adam Johnson has hinted that he could ask for a move if he does not win a regular first-team berth next season.

The England Under-21 star was on loan at Watford for the first three months of last season and did not feature that much on his return - mainly due to the form of left-footed rival Stewart Downing.

Downing signed a new contract in the summer to end speculation about his own future and leave Johnson wondering how he might fit into Gareth Southgate's plans.

"All I want to do is play football, I want to be in the team and showing people what I can do, what I am all about," he told the Northern Echo.

"I have always said that there are not many left wingers in the country. People say I'm so unlucky to be behind the only left-footed England international winger. I am, but I also want to be known as my own sort of player.

"I'm different to Stewart, most people know that. Hopefully we can play in the same team."

Johnson revealed he has spoken to Southgate about his growing frustration and says he would not be scared of leaving the club to further his progress - like ex-team-mate Lee Cattermole.

"I have talked with the manager and we are only three matches into pre-season, so I don't want to be seen as saying this, that and the other, moaning," said Johnson.

"But as time goes on I'm getting more and more frustrated. I just want to play. I'm more than ready to step up.

"I'm aware of the speculation centred on me over the last couple of seasons and I have always said that I can't be around forever in Stewart Downing's shadow.

"I don't want to leave, this is the team I want to play for week in and week out, but if that's not going to happen then I'm not scared to leave, like Lee has. I will go somewhere else, but my main aim is to play for Middlesbrough."