England U16 are set to return to international action for the first time this calendar year during the February 2026 window, with a fresh training camp built around three fixtures against Denmark, Spain and France. Although the FA has yet to officially confirm the squad list, a provisional selection is already circulating and suggests a strong degree of continuity from the group called up by Barry Lewtas back in December.
Among those expected to feature, Emerson Nwaneri (Arsenal) continues to establish himself as one of the standout figures in this age group. The Gunners’ attacking midfielder is progressing rapidly, having already stepped up to feature in the UEFA Youth League with Arsenal’s U19s — a clear indication of his technical assurance and composure beyond his years. The younger brother of Ethan Nwaneri, the England youth international and current Marseille loanee from Arsenal’s first team, Emerson has grown into one of the leaders of this cohort, bringing valuable experience to the setup.
Further forward, Vincent Joseph (Liverpool) is in line for another call-up. The dual-national centre-forward, who is also eligible for Germany, remains one of the most closely monitored attacking prospects within the England pathway. Physically imposing, strong in the challenge and capable of operating with his back to goal as well as stretching defences with runs in behind, he has consistently underlined his importance to the side from camp to camp and looks a genuine focal point in the final third.
Another notable storyline surrounds George Jobling, who has recently completed a move from Chelsea to Tottenham Hotspur. The 15-year-old right-back, and current England U16 captain, is widely regarded as one of the leading operators in his position at this level. A modern full-back in every sense, he is particularly valued for his ability to play out from the back under pressure — a trait increasingly prized in the contemporary game. Comfortable combining in tight areas and providing attacking thrust down the flank with a varied delivery, he also stands up well defensively, showing strength in one-v-one situations and sound positional awareness. His switch to Spurs represents a significant piece of recruitment in the youth market, and this upcoming block of fixtures against three major European nations should provide an ideal benchmark in his ongoing development.
Full Squad List
Goalkeepers
Lucca Barnett (Crystal Palace)
Mikel Jack (Tottenham Hotspur)
Defenders
Theo Carrington (Manchester City)
George Jobling (Tottenham Hotspur)
Emmanuel Fejokwu (West Ham United)
Josh Henry (Chelsea)
Rory Sykes (Brighton & Hove Albion)
Bobby Martin (Southampton)
Kasen Brown (Manchester City)
Thomas McDermott (Chelsea)
Midfielders
Reggie Watson (Chelsea)
David Eze (Manchester City)
Darren Motsi (Leicester City)
Mishel Nduka (Arsenal)
Xavier Parker (Manchester City)
Forwards
Josh Abe (Liverpool)
Oscar Johnson (Aston Villa)
Emerson Nwaneri (Arsenal)
Vincent Joseph (Liverpool)
Mylo Bernard (Crystal Palace)
