A tough pitch, a physical opponent and the pressure of knowing a result could be crucial in securing Euro qualification.
Those are the three things which England U21s boss Aidy Boothroyd believes will all add to his squad’s development following their crucial victory over Latvia on Tuesday.
The Young Lions found themselves a goal down to their hosts after a tricky start in Jelgava, before goals from Tammy Abraham and Mason Mount earned a crucial three points from their trip.
It means Boothroyd’s team now go into their final two games next month sitting six points clear at the top of their group with a chance to secure a place at next summer’s Euro Finals when they play Andorra in Chesterfield.
"We're delighted with the win, it was a really tough game and one of the hardest physical games that we've had,” said Boothroyd.
"You can see why they've not lost here, as they're a difficult team to play against.
"In the end, I'm glad we showed the character to get through. We could've had a couple more goals towards the end, but there was always the threat of a counter attack.”
Boothroyd also reserved special praise for debutant Mount, who was the game's stand-out player after setting up Abraham’s equaliser before scoring the winner himself after the break.
The 19-year-old stepped into Boothroyd’s group for the first time this month after an impressive start to the season with Derby County where he’s on loan from Chelsea.
"He did really well and was unlucky not to get another one at the end, but his quality is there for all to see,” said the head coach.
"Physically, he got a bit of a hiding a couple of times, but he got back up and his passing, his delivery from set-plays and the finish at the end were all fantastic.
"He's certainly a talent, he'll have the ball in tight areas and he was the one who kept his feet really well.
"He's getting a lot of attention at the minute, and rightly so, but this is just the start for him and it's now about him consolidating a place in the team if he keeps doing what he's doing.
"But he's a great guy, he always has a smile on his face and loves to train, and he's not afraid of hard work or a physical challenge either.”
Fancy seeing the U21s in action next month when they could seal qualification against Andorra in Chesterfield?
Tickets are on sale now, priced £10 for adults and £5 for concessions. A family ticket (two adults and two children) is available at £20 and group booking and Charter Standard discounts apply. Tickets can be purchased online or by calling 01246 269300 (option 1).
