Middlesbrough will be seeking a fourth successive win this weekend when they travel to manager Garry Monk's former club Leeds United.

After a slow start to the season, the pre-season favourites are beginning to show why so many people fancied them to win the league before a ball was kicked.

Whilst their big summer spending spree caught the eye, Boro's upturn in form has come about since academy graduate Marcus Tavernier has been in the team.

The quick winger made a positive impression in the Carabao Cup and that saw him get a start in the 2-0 win against Reading in the league towards the end of October.

He has started the next two fixtures, that they won, grabbing the only goal against Sunderland last week.

However at 18-years old Monk will know he has to manage Tavernier carefully over the season, so should he start against Leeds on Sunday in what will be a feisty encounter?

Here our writers share their thoughts...

Adam Simeoni

He's young and in-form, so why not?

Youngsters new to the first team play without fear, a trait that can be devastating at this level. Tavernier is enjoying his football more than any in the Boro side, and he should get the nod against a Leeds side lacking confidence.

George Dagless

Absolutely.

Tavernier has done a sound job since coming into the side and has been part of the reason Boro's form has improved.

To bring him out of the side when he is in form would make little sense and so I think he will start.

Sam Rourke

Absolutely.

Tavernier has been a breath of fresh air to Garry Monk's side, and his youthful exuberance is proving very effective.

Why change something that isn't broke?

Alfie Burns

It would be hard for Monk to drop the youngster, who has been playing out of his skin.

Tavernier entered the international break full of confidence after scoring the winning goal against Sunderland, and Monk will be hoping he can continue that form against Leeds.

If he starts, which I’m fully expecting him to, Leeds could be in trouble.