Milton Keynes Dons have completed the signing of Middlesbrough’s highly rated youngster, Marcus Tavernier, on loan for the rest of the season. Tavernier committed his future to the Smoggies by signing a new three-and-a-half-year contract last month, and if he manages to make an impact during his spell at the MK Stadium, he would certainly be in contention for a regular place in the starting line-up next season.
Tavernier emerged through the youth ranks of Newcastle United and Middlesbrough and whilst his time with the youth side of the Boro, he caught the attention of the former Middlesbrough manager, Garry Monk. A notable event in his developmental process occurred when he was called up for the England U19 squad last year, which is no mean feat for a blossoming starlet.
The 18-year-old was handed four starts and a substitute appearances by the Riversiders in the Championship this season, and he found the back of the net once. Besides, he also made three appearances in the League Cup, with the youngster managing to smash one goal. An attacking midfielder down the left, he should be an ideal addition to the ranks of Robbie Neilson.
Middlesbrough’s new manager, Tony Pulis, has been found to be quite willing to trim his squad but shipping Tavernier out could be a boon in disguise for all the parties involved. It would render Middlesbrough the opportunity to pen down his calibre in a better manner and see whether he makes the most of the opportunities he is likely to be handed in League One.
The work-rate that he offers is exemplary and he really brings energy and pace on the left flank. He possesses a strong mentality to excel and is someone who looks to find the loopholes in the defence of the opposition. Besides, he has shown that he is very keen to find the back of the net whenever there is a genuine goal-scoring opportunity and there has been a steady development in his career.
He is, however, far from being a finished commodity and there are lots of areas of improvement such as his passing, vision and consistency. By getting some game time under his belt, he should be able to brush himself for better. The Dons are currently at the 19 spot in the league table and Tavernier should be able to inject some freshness into the side and help them in finishing higher on the table.
Statistics Credits: WhoScored
