At 10am this Wednesday, at the Pinatar Arena in Murcia, England’s youth sides get back into action – beginning with England U19s, who kick off a run of three friendlies against Ukraine. Blessed with a squad of rare quality at this level, the Young Lions will be looking to make a strong start as they aim to finish in the top two of their group – ideally top spot, which would set up a more favourable semi-final tie against the runners-up from the other pool, which features France, Portugal, Germany and hosts Albania.
England line-up against Ukraine :
Head coach Will Antwi has named a hugely exciting 22-man squad, almost entirely made up of players born in 2007. There are just three exceptions: Arsenal goalkeeper Jack Porter (2008), plus Jeremy Monga and Max Dowman (both 2009).
Dowman, the young Leicester winger, has caught the eye at the start of the Championship season with a goal and an assist in just 145 minutes of league football. Monga, meanwhile, impressed during pre-season and has already made his Premier League debut for Chelsea against Leeds United – where he also won a penalty.
Other names to watch include midfielder Souleymane Sidibé, who recently swapped Stoke City for PSV Eindhoven, as well as forwards Shumaira Mheuka (Chelsea) and Jay Robinson (Southampton). The latter has made a bright start at a club renowned for giving young players a platform to shine.
England’s starting XI to face Ukraine :
- Jack Porter (Arsenal)
- Jaden Dixon (Stoke City)
- Sam Amissah (Fulham FC)
- Kian Noble (Manchester City)
- Trey Nyoni (Liverpool)
- Sol SIdibé (PSV Eindhoven)
- Jeremy Monga (Leicester)
- Harrison Armstrong (Preston North End)
- Baylee Dipepa (Southampton)
- Divine Mukasa (Manchester City)
- Rio Ngumoha (Liverpool)
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