The England U19 squad recently clinched the UEFA European Championship, showcasing a wealth of talent that could very well shape the future of English football and potentially become the Euros Winners of tomorrow. This team, brimming with potential and skill, featured players from top academies across England and Europe. Let’s take a closer look at the young lions who brought home the trophy.
Defensive Dynamos: The Backline Backbone
England’s defense at the U19 Euros was robust and versatile, featuring players capable of commanding performances at both club and international levels.
Luke Chambers (Liverpool), a left-back with a strong Liverpool pedigree, has progressed through the ranks at Anfield since a young age. His academy upbringing and consistent performances for the U23s highlight his potential for future first-team football.
Callum Doyle (Manchester City), on loan at Sunderland, played a crucial role in their promotion from League One. His experience in senior football, combined with his Manchester City academy background, marks him as a central defender with a bright future.
Ronnie Edwards (Peterborough United), a central defender scouted from Barnet, has become a first-team regular at Peterborough. His consistent presence in the MU19 squad underscores his growing international experience and maturity.
Bashir Humphreys (Chelsea) brings versatility to the defense, capable of playing in multiple positions across the backline. His experience with England at the MU16 level further demonstrates his international pedigree.
Brooke Norton-Cuffy (Arsenal), a dynamic right-back, gained valuable experience on loan at Lincoln City. His pace and power make him a modern full-back with attacking capabilities.
Daniel Oyegoke (Brentford), formerly of Arsenal, transitioned to Brentford, adding to their pool of young talent. His prior international experience with England MU17s adds to his credentials as a promising defender.
Jarell Quansah (Liverpool), the scorer of England’s semi-final winning goal against Italy, is a ball-playing central defender. His academy education at Liverpool since the age of five, combined with his international goals, points to a player with leadership qualities and composure.
Young Lions head coach Ian Foster speaks to his players during their U19 EURO semi-final win over Italy
Midfield Maestros: Creative Engines
The midfield of the England U19 team was a hub of creativity and technical prowess, driven by players with diverse skills and backgrounds.
Carney Chukwuemeka (Aston Villa), a technically gifted midfielder, has already broken into the Aston Villa first team. His Austrian birthplace and Villa academy education provide a unique blend of influences on his playing style.
Alfie Devine (Tottenham Hotspur), despite a Rugby League background, excelled in football, joining Spurs after time with Liverpool and Wigan. Becoming Tottenham’s youngest first-team player highlights his rapid ascent and potential impact.
Jamie Bynoe-Gittens (Borussia Dortmund), a recent addition to the MU19 squad, has made a significant impact at the U19 EURO. His journey from Reading, Chelsea, and Manchester City academies to Borussia Dortmund underscores his ambition and talent.
Sam Iling-Junior (Juventus), a left-footed winger, spent nine years at Chelsea before moving to Juventus. His consistent international appearances for England at various youth levels demonstrate his established pedigree.
Tim Iroegbunam (Aston Villa), a midfielder who progressed through West Bromwich Albion’s and Aston Villa’s academies, earned his MU19 call-up after breaking into Villa’s first team. His rapid rise in club football translated seamlessly to the international stage.
Aaron Ramsey (Aston Villa), another Aston Villa playmaker, aims to emulate his brother Jacob’s success. His inclusion in the MU19 squad signals his potential to follow in his brother’s footsteps towards the senior England setup.
Alex Scott (Bristol City), hailing from Guernsey, has become a regular for Bristol City. His crucial equalizing goal in the semi-final against Italy showcased his composure and importance to the team.
Harvey Vale (Chelsea), the England captain, is a key playmaker in midfield. His leadership and skill from a young age at Fulham and Chelsea culminated in captaining his country to Euro glory.
Forward Firepower: Goalscoring Prowess
England’s forward line at the U19 Euros was characterized by clinical finishing and diverse attacking threats.
Liam Delap (Manchester City), son of former professional Rory Delap, has been a consistent presence in England’s youth setups. His experience across MU17, MU18, and MU19 levels, coupled with his Manchester City academy background, marks him as a seasoned young striker.
Daniel Jebbison (Sheffield United), Canadian-born but raised in Derby, impressed on loan at Burton Albion. His blend of physicality and goalscoring ability made him a key forward option for the Young Lions.
Dane Scarlett (Tottenham Hotspur), a prolific striker, played a vital role in the Young Lions’ Euro campaign. His crucial goals and Tottenham Hotspur academy background highlight his potential to become a leading goalscorer in the future.
Dane Scarlett has been a regular goalscorer for England in their U19 EURO campaign this season
Future is Bright
This U19 Euro winning squad represents the future of English football. With players honing their skills at top academies and already gaining first-team experience, the potential for these young lions to become the euros winners and stars of tomorrow is immense. Keep an eye on these names as they continue their journey in the beautiful game.
