England Under-19s boss Keith Downing paid tribute to the strength and attitude of his squad in Georgia, after victory over Germany sealed a Euro semi-final spot.
A brace apiece from Nottingham Forest striker Ben Brereton and Fulham winger Ryan Sessegnon ensured a 4-1 win in Tbilisi to see the Young Lions top their qualifying group with three wins from three games.
And the result means Downing’s side will now take on Czech Republic in Wednesday’s semi-final, as England close in on their target of the Euro title.
“We’re delighted to get through because it’s been a tough group with Germany, Holland and Bulgaria,” said Downing, who was forced to make two substitutions in the opening 15 minutes with Trevoh Chalobah and Andre Dozzell suffering early injuries.
“Prior to this week, we knew it was going to be a real test and it has been so we’re pleased to have qualified and with the manner that we’ve done it.
“I think it’s evident today with the two injuries so early on, that it’s really important as a squad for the 18 players who have come here.
“It plays a major part and they’ve all had contributions up to the semi-final, so we’re delighted with it.”
After a goal-less first half, England certainly found their form after the break to inflict a second 4-1 defeat on Germany in this competition following the same scoreline in their opener against the Dutch.
But Downing admits the result perhaps flattered his team, with Frank Kramer’s side forced to attack in search of a win to give themselves a chance of progressing.
“Germany pushed and kept pushing until the end, so the scoreline might have flattered us a little bit,” admitted Downing.
“But I thought we defended very strongly as a group and the goalkeeper made some good saves when he needed to.
“So it was a whole contribution from the players and staff, getting the games and recovery right and what we’ve got to do now is carry on for the next week to try and finish the job off.”
Both Chalobah and Dozzell will be assessed and treated over the next two days ahead of Wednesday’s game, with the extent of their injuries not fully apparent just yet.
“We’ve just got to check on them and monitor them over the next few days, but they’re important players for us so we’ll see how it is over the next 24-48 hours,” explained the head coach.
