Tottenham transfer rumour: Andros Townsend wants January exit to boost chances of making it to Euro 2016

Andros Townsend is edging closer towards a Tottenham Hotspur exit in January as the winger looks for regular playing time in the second half of the 2015/16 season to boost his chances of making it to the England squad for next summer's European championship. He was demoted to the north London club's U21side and played for them during their 2-1 win over Middlesbrough on 30 November.

The 24-year-old has not started in the Premier League and has made only two starts in the Europa League this term. He last featured for Tottenham during their 2-1 defeat to Anderlecht on 22 October.

The Mirror reports Townsend is looking to leave his current employers in the mid-season transfer window after falling down the pecking order at White Hart Lane. He was involved in a bust up with fitness coach Nathan Gardiner following Tottenham's 2-1 win over Aston Villa on 2 November.

Mauricio Pochettino admitted the winger has a future at the club after revealing the player has apologised for his behaviour. He was part of Tottenham's squad, but he has been an unused substitute since shoving Gardiner in the chest, including in the Europa League victory over FK Qarabag.

After being made to play with the club's U21 side, Townsend has decided to leave his current employers. Swansea City, Aston Villa, West Bromwich Albion, Leicester City and Newcastle United are alerted and interested in landing Townsend in the January transfer window.

Tottenham U21 coach Ugo Ehiogu has hailed Townsend's contribution after his side sealed three points against Middlesbrough. The winger set up the cross for Anton Walkes in the 80<sup>th minute, which was the difference between the two sides.

"Andros' contribution was excellent, always occupying two or three of their players and his attitude was first-class," Ehiogu told Tottenham's official website.

"We recovered well after going a goal down against the run of play. The players continue to make good strides. Our mentality is getting stronger and we're getting harder to beat."