Blackburn Rovers returnee Stewart Downing appeared to chat and share a joke with a cardboard cutout of a supporter at their game against Middlesbrough.

Downing rejoined the club last week amid an injury crisis at Ewood Park after his contract initially expired at the end of last season.

https://twitter.com/Rovers/status/1323244745167147009

The 36-year-old was not included in the matchday squad for the goalless draw on Tuesday night but still attended the match and was sat next to one particular fan’s cardboard cutout, which appeared to distract him.

Although real supporters are still prevented from entering stadiums, the player seemed happy to settle for the stand-in and was seen talking and laughing alongside it.