Eastick calls up trio

Brian Eastick has been forced to replace three players in his England Under-18 squad to face France on Thursday evening at Hartlepool.

The Head Coach has called up Southampton's Jake Thomson, Everton's John-Paul Kissock and Karl Ashton of Derby for the clash with the highly-rated French.

Missing out are star striker Daniel Sturridge (pictured), who plays at Manchester City, Chelsea's Lee Sawyer and Arsenal's Paul Rodgers.

Eastick, who was Academy Manager at Newcastle under Sir Bobby Robson, expects a tough evening.

"France are an excellent team," he said. "Technically, they are excellent. They are very athletic too. When you play against teams like France, you have to be at your very best to compete. That's what international football is all about."

The two teams did battle at Under-17 level last year, a game which ended 2-2 in Luxembourg.

The injured Sturridge netted twice as England took a 2-1 lead into half-time. However, France roared back and after equalising in the 50th minute through Gabriel Obertan, were the dominant force until the final whistle.

"We started well that day and were the better team in the first half, but France finished strongly," recalled Eastick. "It was a terrific game and there were some terrific players on show."

Tickets for the game are £3 for adults if booked in advance (£5 on the day of the match) while children (under-16) and OAPs are just £1.

To book, call Hartlepool FC on 01429 272584 and press option two, or send a fax to 01429 863007.