Brookes (left) has enjoyed learning from fellow tighthead Murray

Newcastle Falcons prop Kieran Brookes says he is happy to be learning as understudy to Scotland international Euan Murray at Kingston Park.

Murray's arrival in December has pushed the 20-year-old to the bench, although Brookes has developed as an impact substitute as games progress.

"He's a huge character and a great role model," Brookes told BBC Newcastle.

"He gives us some good tips, he's good to learn from, and likewise he's a good player to come off the bench for."

Brookes continued: "That's what I've been told to do, when Euan starts tiring around 60 or 70 minutes, I'm asked to come on and just try to make as big an impact as I can."

Friday night sees the Falcons take on Harlequins in the LV= Cup semi-finals, with the prospect of silverware for Alan Tait's side.

"It'll be a massive opportunity to play in a final," Brookes added.

"We're on a good streak, especially with the win at Leeds and the win against Harlequins in the last game.

"I've never been involved in a semi-final, or a final since I was at school, so this is a massive opportunity, and it's on TV as well.

"I suppose people will be watching but we've just got to play how we do every week."

The former Kirkham player has progressed rapidly through the Falcons set-up since he joined the club in the summer of 2009, making 31 appearances, 20 of those this season.

Premiership rivals Leicester Tigers were linked with a move for Brookes in January.

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