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As England defender Martin Cranie prepares for the biggest game of his career, he’s hoping that memories of England’s last Final appearance will spur him and his team mates on to lift their first trophy in 16 years.
The Portsmouth man was captain when the U19s met France in the European Championship Final in 2005, playing alongside fellow Under-21 team mates Mark Noble and Andrew Taylor. He was also part of the U17s side that lost on penalties to Portugal in the semi-final of the 2003 competition.
Cranie's fist goal at Under-21 level on Friday put England in front against Sweden inside a minute of their semi-final, and Stuart Pearce's side went on to take a three goal advantage into the break. Sweden fought back to draw level and take the game to penalties, but England held their nerve to go through.
Now with a huge game against Germany in Malmo just hours away, he’s determined to help the Three Lions go home with happy memories.
"When I was in the U17s we lost in the semi-finals and then we had the U19s so hopefully this is the year to go one better," said Cranie.
“The U19 final is the biggest game I've played in, or maybe my debut for Southampton, but this game will top both of those.
"We have to treat the Final like any other game, without taking our foot off the gas this time," he continued.
"It would mean everything to me to win it, the highlight of my career. I've never really won a medal so if we were to win it, I'd be ecstatic."
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