Source: FOOTYMAD
Brooking ensures strong U19 squad
Sir Trevor Brooking, the Football Association's director of football development, has intervened to ensure the England U19 squad heading to France for this month's European Championship is the strongest possible. Tottenham Hotspur had concerns about releasing players in July, when they wanted them to fill gaps in their pre-season schedule as senior players were given time off following the World Cup finals. It threatened to deprive U19 coach Noel Blake of the services of John Bostock, Stephen Caulker, Dean Parrett and Andros Townsend. Blackburn Rovers were also believed to be resisting the involvement of Phil Jones, who will miss the tournament as he may be moved up to U21 level. "To be fair to the clubs, the timing of the tournament is a bit tricky but it really is the only slot available to Uefa," said Brooking. "Any later in the season and the player-release issue would be just as hard. I think the clubs appreciate that now." The squad will meet up on July 12 before heading to France for the tournament. Harry Redknapp, the Tottenham manager, confirmed his willingness to release his four players. " It's a great honour to play for your country and we wouldn't want to stop them from playing," he told Sky Sports. "It's important, whatever age group, whatever level, it's something you strive for." The U19 side reached the final of last year's European Championship, losing to Ukraine in the final. Squad in full: Declan Rudd (Norwich City), James Severn (Derby County); Nathan Baker (Aston Villa), Stephen Caulker (Tottenham), Matthew Briggs (Fulham), Reece Brown (Manchester United), Nathaniel Clyne (Crystal Palace), Thomas Cruise (Arsenal), Josh Thompson (Celtic); John Bostock, Dean Parrett, Andros Townsend (all Tottenham), Matthew James (Manchester United), Jacob Mellis (Chelsea), Matthew Phillips (Wycombe); Nathan Delfouneso (Aston Villa), Ryan Donaldson (Newcastle United), Frank Nouble (West Ham).
