England Under 17 boss John Peacock believes that tonight’s UEFA Under 17 European Championship final with Holland will be an occasion to savour.
Peacock, who stressed that the tournament is as much about development as well as winning, revealed his delight at reaching tonight’s showpiece game which provides him with the chance to emulate his success of 2010 when he led an England team containing the likes of Ross Barkley and Connor Wickham to victory over Spain.
“We are delighted to be here,” Peacock said.
“It’s always a challenge to get to the final when you are up against eight quality teams in this competition.
“I think there are two very good teams in the final, and two attacking teams. I would expect that it will be a real good game of football.”
“Holland have done well over the last few years, especially this age group, and they are doing exceptionally well in their development work.
“Back in England it is the same, and reaching this final will give everybody a lift. That’s the biggest plus point. It’s about development of course but also about embedding that winning mentality especially when you get to this stage. Reaching this stage is a massive achievement for these players and will be a massive experience.”
He added: “You hope someday that these players will go on to bigger and better things. The World Cup is just around the corner, and we have experiences of players that have come through our system and are now ready to play a part in Brazil, and I think that is what it is all about.
“To give them this experience and immense challenge now can only stand them in good stead for the future.”
