The Newcastle United forward has been named as captain for England Under-18s’ double-header against Russia next week in the absence of regular skipper Ryan Ledson.
Russia v England
International U18 Matches
8 & 10 June 2015
Arena Khimki, Moscow
With team-mates such as Tosin Adarabioyo, Dael Fry, Tammy Abraham and Elliott Moore all standing at 6ft 4ins or more, some may find the task of leading the Young Lions an intimidating prospect, but the Geordie striker would rather have no-one else behind him.
"There are some big boys in this group, especially the centre-halves, but they are all top lads," he told TheFA.com.
"I might not be as tall as them, but I feel really proud to lead this squad out to Russia. They are not nasty or bullies, but I tell you what, once we cross that white line you would want them on your side."
Armstrong, who has featured on numerous occasions for the Tyneside club’s first-team this season, wore the armband last time out for England as he produced a captain’s performance with two strikes in the 6-1 win over Switzerland.
Although typically those positioned further down usually captain a side, he is proud to be one of a few frontman to lead his country – just like his hero Wayne Rooney.
"Aye it is a bit unique. I’ve done it a few times at Newcastle, but it’s quite rare for a striker to get it," he added.
"When you have the armband, it is of course a big responsibility, but I have always believed that you should have 11 captains on the pitch – so in that sense it doesn’t make too much of a difference.
"It’s my first time captaining for a full trip, so of course I’m really proud. I have to admit that when I saw Lego [Ledson] was injured, I was hoping to get it again after wearing it against Switzerland and thankfully Neil has given it to me and it’s a big boost.
"There comes a few different responsibilities with being made captain, such as making sure the lads are all wearing the same gear when we eat and things like that, but it doesn’t really bother me, it’s something I really enjoy."
Dewsnip’s Young Lions have an impressive record this campaign, winning six out of their seven games, and Armstrong is determined not to let those high standards drop on his watch.
"It’s been a great year and we’ve had a lot of wins. There are a few lads that are pushing into their club first-teams, which is also nice to see, and we are being recognised a little and being given an opportunity," he said.
Armstrong has been a regular for England U18s this season
"We can’t really let that slip now having done so well this year. There is absolutely no talk of tiredness, we all want to just get out there and try and get the two wins.
"We expect Russia to be a big side and quite physical, they’ll get stuck into us and won’t allow us to relax – we will have to match that if we want to do well."
Captaining and notching for his country has not been the only thing Armstrong has enjoyed of late. Being a life-long Newcastle fan, he was delighted to see his club secure their Premier League survival.
"I picked up a little knock and had to miss the last game of the season, which was obviously gutting for me, but I’m ready to go now," he explained.
"It was a massive relief that we managed to stay up, and the lads did excellent to defeat West Ham on the last day.
"Being a fan as well, that’s given me a massive buzz coming into this trip."
