Adam Johnson admits he 'thrives' on speculation continuously linking him with a move to Premier League clubs.

The Middlesbrough winger has flourished this season having finally become first choice following Stewart Downing's sale to Aston Villa in the summer.

The 22-year-old's form has attracted admiring glances from the Premier League and Everton manager David Moyes was in attendance as Boro drew 2-2 with his former club Preston at the weekend.

Johnson did not disappoint, notching his third goal in two games and his ninth overall from only 15 matches this season.

The England Under-21 international was expected to follow Downing out of the door at the Riverside in the summer following Boro's relegation from the top flight with Chelsea said to be interested, however any move failed to materialise.

Johnson's contract is set to expire at the end of the season and he said: "I have been linked with massive, massive clubs since I was 18.

"I thrive on it, it boosts your confidence. But I tend to get on with my own game and whatever happens, happens.

"I was delighted with my goal today - I wanted to be the match winner but it wasn't to be. We gave away another last-gasp goal and it's happening too much this season.

"There's something not right, we have to defend better late on."

Johnson admits that the players were shocked when they heard of Gareth Southgate's sacking last week but was still pleased with the team's response at Deepdale.

"It's all been up in the air for all the past few days," he added.

"Coops (coach Colin Cooper) has sat us down and talked about things. These things happen. It's a massive shock for everyone but it's our job and we have to put it behind us.

"We could have felt sorry for ourselves but we put on one of our best displays. We should have been three up at half-time."