European U21 Championship

[jozza800]

The u21 game encapsulated Quansah in a nutshell. Gave away a ridiculously lazy pen but was otherwise very good. Brought the ball out of defence very well.

He has all the tools, you just wonder if he'll ever be able to put it all together.

[jozza800]

Can see why Engerland’s do ok in these tournaments. They don’t play any kind of expansive game - it’s just plenty of physicality and a ton of tactics. This is why we don’t produce top quality. These Spanish players might be behind physically but they are developing the ability on the ball…

Definitely noticeable for this year's tournament. The lad they brought on on the RW looked like a 30 year old Rugby Union player ffs!

However, the u21 side from 2023 had Jones, Elliott, Gibbs-White, Angel Gomes and Cole Palmer in the side. Two of them are smaller than my nan and none of them are quick.

I definitely think we've improved in the last 10 years. We're still along way from the Europeans but we're far less 'kick and rush' as we used to be at all levels.

[Steveo]

True - was exacerbated in that Spain game with some decent Spanish players who looked physically short at this time. The key for me is though - spanish still playing to develop - England still playing for the result. It’s an approach but at u21 levels you should be still looking for football purity IF you want to develop the next Iniesta - Xavi - Xabi - Modric - Pedri through the heart of play. We are still looking for pace and power. It can win you the odd tournament - but for consistency at the top level it’s technique - it’s still sidelined in the english game .Palmer is just a player in Spain - we talk about him as though he is gold dust

[RedMagic]

Harvey Elliott puts England ahead in the semi final against the Netherlands.

[RedMagic]

The Netherlands equalise as a result of a shocking piece of goalkeeping.

[RedMagic]

Elliott scores a brilliant solo goal to put England 2-1 up with five minutes of normal time left to play.

[RedMagic]

Elliott has repeatedly been England's best U21 player when playing in a more central position.

[Daffydd]

Is that his 4th goal of the tournament so far? Fair play

[RedMagic]

Is that his 4th goal of the tournament so far? Fair play

I think so. I also think that's his 11th goal in his last 12 games for the England U21s.

[RedMagic]

England 2-1 Netherlands

England the reigning champions will play either France or Germany in the final.