SIBLING rivalry will be pushed to the limit when a set of brothers square-up against each other as opposing mascots for Bournemouth’s game with Middlesbrough next month.

The Keen family will be split between the two championship sides, with brothers Jonny, seven, and Charlie, 10, walking out with the Cherries players while Alexander, 11, will accompany the away team.

Dad David Keen, 43, who hails from the north-east town, moved to the south coast five years ago for work, and has encouraged his sons to support their new side.

“I’ve bought 30 tickets in both ends of the ground for family and friends.

“It should be a great day out for everyone,” he added.

“I think it’s important for families to support local teams and it can only help the future of the game.

“Encouraging my sons was easy as Bournemouth is a good club and family orientated. Although, on this occasion, I’ll be supporting the away team.”

Eldest brother Alex, who supports Middlesbrough, will be joined by twin cousins Alfie and Ernie Richardson, both 12, as the away team’s mascots. Alex said: “I hope they clap me, even though I’ll be wearing a Middlesbrough shirt.”

The Keen household are bracing themselves for 20 friends and relatives who plan to travel down and stay with them on the weekend of the game. Care worker Mr Keen admitted it would be a bit of a squeeze but said it would be worth it for the football fanatic family to have their reunion.

He added: “I still haven’t broken the news to my other half about how many people are coming!”