The 21-year-old - born in Shotley Bridge - has played for England at both under-18 and under-20 level but qualifies for Andy Robinson's Scotland through his Glaswegian grandfather.

Tait - who could also switch to Ireland through his grandmother - will have to prove his worth to Robinson first but Newcastle Falcons head coach Steve Bates is backing the full-back whatever decision he makes.

"Alex is an excellent defender, very quick," said Bates. "We need to work on his decision making and counter-attacking, but he's a decent kicker and fearless under the high ball."

And Tait's father, Alasdair, who considers himself Scottish despite being born in England, admitted he won't be favouring one brother over the other should they collide.

"We support whichever side we have a family interest in. So if Mathew is playing for England we support England," said Alasdair.

"Alex plays his cards close to his chest and he has an Irish grandmother as well so he could opt for Ireland. He'll let us know when he makes his mind up."