Downey has taken the scenic route to World Rugby prominence. After making his debut for his home province, Leinster, in 2003, for whom he would play for on just 8 more occasions, Downey joined Connacht, but injury marred his stint in Galway. After being released from his Connacht contract, Downey joined the then European Champions Munster but,like at Connacht, injury prevented him being any other than a peripheral player. Subsequent to his release from Munster, Downey joined Italian side Calvisano where he played in the 2006/07 Heineken Cup pool stage. Due to his impressive performances in Italy, the then National League 1 side Northampton opted to take Downey to Franklins Gardens in June 2007. Downey was in instant success with the club, gaining promotion to the Premiership in 2008. The very next season, Downey won a European Challenge Cup title as his Northampton side defeated Bourgoin. Downey is a fantastic ball carrier and is uncompromising in the tackle. After 6 years with Saints he linked up with Glasgow. His stint at the Warriors did not last long as he linked up with Dai Young at Wasps in 2015.
Jan 16 DH
Career
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Monkstown FC Inside Centre |
2016 - present |
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Leinster Rugby Outside Centre |
2003 - 2004 |
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Connacht Rugby Outside Centre |
2004 - 2006 |
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Calvisano Outside Centre |
2006 - 2007 |
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Northampton Saints Outside Centre |
2007 - 2013 |
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Munster Rugby Outside Centre |
2006 - 2014 |
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Ireland Inside Centre |
2013 - 2015 |
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Glasgow Warriors Outside Centre |
2014 - 2015 |
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Wasps Outside Centre |
2015 - 2016 |
