Jonathan Woodgate has revealed that he's hopeful of agreeing new contracts for three Middlesbrough youngsters.

Despite a shaky start to the season, the Teessiders have seen a huge upturn in form in recent weeks with the club enjoying a six-game unbeaten run over the festive period.

That was, in part, down to the introduction of Aynsley Pears and Djed Spence to the first team fold - while it also offered a more integral role for Marcus Tavernier.

The trio have been excellent during recent weeks, and after the decision to hand a new contract to Hayden Coulson last month, it seems that the other three will also be rewarded with fresh terms.

Speaking to Teesside Live about Djed Spence's potential new contract, Woodgate said: “Hopefully it’s done in the next 10 days.

"Likewise with (Marcus) Tavernier, Aynsley (Pears)as well, it’s important to tie these players down. They are like signings for us.”

All three players have handed the demands of the Championship schedule with no issues, and Woodgate says that the main obstacle they've faced is the physical step up from academy football to the first team.

Asked how they've improved, Woodgate said: “More physically than anything, The Championship is relentless, there is no league like it in Europe, three games in six days for example and we play again on Tuesday so it is relentless and I need to look after them.”

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The verdict

The news of three imminent contract renewals is great news for Middlesbrough.

The Teessiders are building something very exciting as they look to hand opportunities to their talented youngsters, with Aynsley Pears, Djed Spence and Marcus Tavernier very much at the heart of that.

If the club can secure their futures in the next week or two it will be a huge boost for club as they move into the second half of the season.