Trindade de Vilhena growing up fast

With two Under-17 titles and a senior call-up already under his belt, it is little wonder Tonny Trindade de Vilhena feels at ease in the Netherlands' Under-21 squad.

One of the youngest players at the final tournament in Israel, 18-year-old Tonny Trindade de Vilhena has caught the eye of not only U21 coach Cor Pot, but has also crossed the radar of Louis van Gaal. He came to the fore in continental competition in 2011, finishing as joint top scorer as Albert Stuivenberg's side lifted the UEFA European U17 Championship in Serbia. Another U17 crown followed the following season in Slovenia.

"After those two European Championships – the two titles – I wanted to play at a higher level, which I'm doing right now. I wanted more," Trindade de Vilhena told UEFA.com. His ascent ever since has been a rapid one, with full international honours seemingly round the corner following a first involvement with Van Gaal's squad. "I was called up for the World Cup qualifiers against Estonia and Romania but I didn't play in those matches," he added. "It was a very good experience which I can bring to this team in Israel."

Pot's 23-man party includes 12 players who have represented the Oranje at the highest level, with captain Kevin Strootman leading the way on 18 caps. It is therefore little surprise that Trindade de Vilhena views the PSV Eindhoven midfielder as an important influence. "During training he gives me a lot of directions and I can learn a lot from his experience," added the Feyenoord youngster. "He certainly helps me to become a better player."

The Dutch experience was certainly evident during the first half of their 3-2 victory against Germany on Thursday evening. Superior throughout the first half, the Jong Oranje suffered a scare when Germany came back from 2-0 down but ultimately prevailed courtesy of Leroy Fer's last-minute header. Despite the fluidity and flexibility of the team's play, Trindade de Vilhena credits their impressive start to the cohesive nature of the squad.

"The first half was good, the second half was more difficult, but we continued to fight and we did a good job in the end," he said. "That has put us in a very good mood. As a team we get along with each other very well and we make sure we act as a team throughout this tournament – all 23 players. That keeps us going and helps us to achieve this kind of level. It is our team spirit."