Stewart Downing targets starting place against France

Liverpool midfielder Stewart Downing has said that he is targeting a starting place in the England team at Euro 2012.

Downing, who struggled in his first season at Anfield, was considered a surprise inclusion in the final 23-man roster. However, he insists that he has not travelled with the team just to make up the numbers.

"I'm looking forward to it," he told Absolute Radio.

"I'd like to [start]. I'm not here to make the numbers up and sit on the bench. I'm training, I'm training hard and I'm hoping to start against France.

"I think I've got a good chance, but that's up the manager."

Downing made 36 appearances for Liverpool this season.