I am probably in a samll minority here, but i am pleased (excited...) that Rafa is targeting experienced premier league players such as Barry and Keane for next season.
Whilst not as excited bout Downing being linked, I believe that the targeting of such players for large sums, points to Rafa realising that No. 19 is a must for his club and his legacy at the club, and that he is running out of time and has to do it soon.
These players are used to the long hard grueling season, should settle straight away and will be able to dig in at difficult away grounds like Hull!!
Plus the fact that you need a few paddies in the team to be succesfulll. Acouple of scots now and the league is ours. :drool: