Under-21s go on despite dismay

Following England's 3-0 win in the crucial Euro 2008 qualifier away in Estonia, most footballers have ditched their shorts and boots in favour of trunks and flip-flops as they make a bee-line for the beach.

Spare a thought, though, for the England Under-21s. For Stuart Pearce's young men there are at least another two matches to go. Having qualified in style for the Euro 2007 Championships in Holland, England have two more group games coming up in the next seven days. If England live up to their billing as one of the tournament's favourites, progress to Wednesday's semi-finals and beyond will mean the season is extended even further.

To Pearce's disappointment, it was too much for Blackburn Rovers's David Bentley who, despite a call-up to the full England squad, has pulled out of the U21s squad.

Bentley's polished display in England's 'B' international showed gave an indication of why Pearce is so dismayed.

The Rovers man looked certain to play a big part in the tournament. Bentley's international future may rest with Steve McClaren, as Pearce is unlikely to open the U21 door again anytime soon.

Despite this set-back, the rest of the squad are raring to go. Captain Nigel Reo-Coker, who scored his first U21s goal in the 5-0 victory against Slovakia, says his team has now built up a winning mentality.

"Our record is nine games undefeated, every time we play we enjoy it and we go to win," he said.

"We've worked hard to get to the finals - there's no point in coming here if you're not coming to win."

Preston striker David Nugent plans to use the championships as a showcase for his abilities.

"This is a massive tournament", Nugent said.

"All the scouts will be here, the managers from all the clubs, so it'll be our chance to shine."