The numbers would suggest that the winger has produced performances worthy of remaining in Rodgers’ plans. In 28 league appearances this season, Downing has created 60 chances for teammates – over 20 more than two regular England wingers in James Milner (37 in 24) and Theo Walcott (33 in 30), which is no mean feat for a player who’s often castigated for his lack of end product. Downing is often derided as a ‘safety-first’ attacker, which is a fair enough claim, but this has changed somewhat since his recent and very visible renewal of confidence, and anyway, much like Milner or Antonia Valencia at the last two Premier League champions, there may well be room for a disciplined, reliable presence on the Anfield flanks.
All of this, though, do not necessarily tell the whole story. Much will depend on whether the Liverpool boss envisages next season’s attack as an interchanging unit – plenty of position-swapping has already gone on between Sturridge, Suarez and Coutinho, and while Downing has provided a nice counterbalance to the process he lacks the versatility to really partake in it. A summer upgrade – or even the delightfully promising Suso – could well prove a better fit into the Rodgers system. Or perhaps the fit-again Fabio Borini could replicate Downing’s tactical diligence with added flexibility and goal threat.
Or perhaps these possibilities are not mutually exclusive: Downing could remain a part of things without representing a first port of call. Much is also likely to depend on whether any potential suitors make themselves known – Rodgers the pragmatist is not blessed with a blank chequebook, and will doubtless be looking to raise fund to continue his rebuilding project.
Whatever the outcome, this season has signified something of a redemption for a player who found himself denounced and written off from all angles less than a year ago. At the very least, Downing has re-proved his top-tier credentials this term, and earned himself no little dignity in the process.