JAMES TAVERNIER hopes brother Marcus can continue to shine at Middlesbrough as he looks to make his big breakthrough in the Championship.

The 18-year-old has made two first team appearances in recent weeks as he helped Garry Monk’s side to EFL Cup wins over Scunthorpe and Aston Villa.

The winger is highly-rated at the Riverside and signed his first professional contract with the Championship club last year.

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And Tavernier will keep a close eye on how his younger sibling is faring south of the border as he looks to follow his lead and make a name for himself in the game.

He said: “I am really pleased for him and he is doing really well down there.

“He has played two cup games and got assists in both so I am really proud of him. He has kept his head down and is working hard and I hope that continues.

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“It is just a big brother thing. I will have a chat with him and if he needs any advice I will give it to him.

“He has grown up with me and watched my career but he is doing well for himself. He is only 18 so he has got a lot of learning to do.

“To make your debut at a club like Middlesbrough is a big step at 18 and I pleased he has done that.

“I have told him to keep his head down, keep working hard and hopefully he will get his chance in the first team again.”