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Wednesday, July 30, 2008, 08:00
Cheltenham Town are believed to have submitted a six-figure bid for Port Vale's Richards, but Downing is yet to talk to the 26-year-old.
Brooker was in the Bristol City side held to a 1-1 draw by the Robins last night.
He made a big impact during his impressive loan spell with Cheltenham last season as he recovered from a series of injury problems.
All Robins followers would relish the chance to see the physical and imposing Brooker back at Cheltenham during the forthcoming campaign, but Downing says Richards could do a similar job if he can be lured away from Vale.
“People talk about us bringing Brooker back and Marc Richards is a close as you get to Brooker,” Downing said.
“Steve is trying to forge his way into City's first XI so we can't wait for him and we have to make moves for other people prior to that.
“Marc got five goals towards at the end of last season and he has pedigree. I have done my homework on him as a person and he ticks all the right boxes.
“He will see what we try to do here and I think he would enjoy it. It's now down to Vale to let us speak to him and we will take it from there.”
Downing's team claimed their third consecutive 1-1 draw against higher level opposition at Whaddon Road, with Ashley Vincent netting their first half goal shortly after signing his new one-year contract.
“Ash Took his goal well he I am pleased he has signed,” Downing said.
“Supporters may ask 'is he good enough?', but there is more to come with Ash Vincent.
“We are in a similar situation to that of Kayode Odejayi three years ago. The boy has had a cruciate injury and he is still a young lad. He is still growing, getting strong, better. He still has his pace and he has more composure now.
“Of course Paul Connor and Ashley need support and competition and we are trying hard to give them that.”
Defender Shane Duff missed last night's match after feeling tightness in a thigh during the warm-up.
Vincent was withdrawn early in the second half with a tight groin, but both players are expected to be fit to face Oxford United away on Saturday.
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