Craig Johns has featured on the latest episode of the Tripe Supper podcast to discuss all things Middlesbrough ahead of their game against Bournemouth on Friday.
Boro return from the international break with a game against their former manager, Jonathan Woodgate, with both sides still hoping to earn a place in the play-off spots.
However, the journalist is hoping the Teesside club will see Marcus Tavernier return to the starting XI after the midfielder picked up a hamstring injury in their defeat to Millwall last time out.
Discussing the importance of the Englishman to Neil Warnock’s side, Johns had the following to say on the matter.
He said: “I think the big thing is, obviously Marcus Tavernier and how he’ll be because he limped off against Millwall and I think he could be important to help Boro play – it will be a massive boost if he is okay and this international break came at the right time for him to rest up.
“Middlesbrough on their day, we know that is what they’re good at. They soak up pressure, stay solid at the back and then transition very quickly in her teams and Marcus Tavernier can be a big part of doing that he’s so good at that when he plays in that central role. So I think for me, him being fit could be crucial for Middlesbrough. “
Will Tavernier play on Friday?
Yes
No
Tavernier has made 29 appearances for Middlesbrough in the Championship this season and has scored on three occasions as well as providing four assists (via Transfermarkt).
TIF Thoughts on Johns’ comments…
Tavernier has been a frequent feature in Warnock’s side this season having racked up 32 appearances for the Teessiders across all competitions. However, one thing which could be worth bearing in mind is not rushing the midfielder back from injury too soon.
The game on Friday offers both sides a great opportunity to climb up the table and close the gap on the play-off spots and it is apparent Johns feels Tavernier could provide Middlesbrough with an added extra to help them compete with Woodgate’s side.
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