England's squad for the upcoming European Under 21 Championships is brimming with talent but it could have been even stronger given some of the players who are still eligible to play.
The likes of Mason Greenwood, Emile-Smith Rowe, Curtis Jones and Callum Hudson-Odoi have all been included by manager Aidy Boothroyd for the tournament in Kosovo this month but as we know, there are so many exciting youngsters coming through the ranks at the moment.
In fact, a number have already been fast-tracked into Gareth Southgate's senior squad - hence them not being brought in for the Under 21 Euros this month.
Advert
But going off players who are still technically eligible for selection, we've put together a frightening XI that could quite easily challenge for the European Championships this summer.
Goalkeeper: Aaron Ramsdale
The Sheffield United shot-stopper is the No.1 for the Under 21's and will more than likely end up getting a cap for the senior squad in the near future.
Right back: Trent Alexander-Arnold
Advert
The Liverpool academy product has been around for what feels like forever and made over 100 Premier League appearances, but he would still be able to drop down to the Under 21's if the powers that be decided to sign it off.
Centre-back: Ben Godfrey
The Everton defender has been impressive this season, proving his worth at centre-back and full-back.
Centre-back: Declan Rice
Advert
West Ham's vice captain is still only 22 and yet plays like a season professional. It looks like he's made the defensive midfield position his own for England, but we've slotted him in this side at centre-back - where he's more than adept.
Left-back: Reece James
The Chelsea man is another superb option at right-back for years to come and is good value to make the Euros squad in the summer.
Central midfield: Jude Bellingham
Advert
The 17-year-old Borussia Dortmund wonderkid's omission from the Under 21 squad today suggests he will be called up by Southgate for the second time.
Attacking midfield: Mason Mount
The Southgate love-in idea was unfair on the Chelsea midfielder, who's been in brilliant form and playing with real maturity.
Attacking midfield: Phil Foden
Advert
Two goals in three appearances for his country, 'the Stockport Iniesta' has developed wonderfully under Pep Guardiola and could be the creative player England have been crying out for.
Right wing: Jadon Sancho
The ludicrously talented 20-year-old completely bypassed the Under 21 set-up and is now a senior squad regular.
Left wing: Bukayo Saka
The versatile Arsenal No.7 only made his Under 21's bow in September 2020 but ended up in the senior side just a month later and has now featured four times.
Striker: Mason Greenwood
Even with a disappointing record this term, the Manchester United youngster is the man who the Under 21's will look to produce the goods in Kosovo.
Should England have made some of the aforementioned players available for Under 21 duty to give them a better chance of winning the tournament?
Sound off in the comments.
Featured Image Credit: