Brooking backs England starlets

Not only are England in their fourth UEFA European Under-17 Championship semi-final in six years, but for the first time they have qualified for the FIFA U-17 World Cup, giving the Football Association's director of football development Sir Trevor Brooking something to celebrate.

Talented group
In fact Sir Trevor, who has held the post since December 2003, watched England's 4-2 victory against the Netherlands on Monday and will be back in Belgium tomorrow when they take on France, has been tipping this particular squad for success. "I've always had my eye on these U17s," he told uefa.com. "There are players that could go through to the seniors. They are the best group in my time in following people through to the seniors."

Individuals
Several individuals impressed the former West Ham United FC player on Monday. "Danny Rose has had a good game, he can play on the left, in the middle like on Monday or off the striker," Sir Trevor said. "Victor Moses is very strong and scored a couple of goals. Henri Lansbury is an excellent player, a really good passer. Michael Woods, he's one we have good hopes about. Generally everyone played their part."

Scoring goals
That flair is something Sir Trevor admits England need more of at the highest level, saying: "Generally we've always been difficult to beat but not had the capability to score goals. That is reflected in the senior teams. We're trying to work hard in adding that flair and this group have always shown that they can score. We think this group is looking more creative and individual than others in previous years."

Opportunity
The ex-English international midfielder added: "It looks like Spain are the favourites, they've played exceptionally well, but to get as far as we have, to get to the World Cup and play South American and African sides at this age group for the first time, is a really good opportunity. But today we are thinking about the semi-final and hopefully a final. You want to take that next step."