Monday, 22 July 2002.
Excitement is high here in Norway as Martin Hunter's hugely promising England Under-19 team ready themselves for their opening game in the UEFA European Under 19 Championships against Germany.
The young lions qualified impressively for these finals and, with a high quality squad assembled, this side know that they can be a threat to anyone.
Expect us to field a 4-3-3 formation and, with the likes of Dean Ashton and Jermaine Pennant, we look to have genuine fire-power upfront. Captain Jermaine Jenas will anchor the team from the middle of the midfield.
England will be looking to repeat the 3-1 victory they achieved over Germany in February. Ipswich hit-man Darren Bent scored twice that night but even he has been unable to force his way into the final 18-man squad, such is the depth of English talent at this level.
Chelsea's Carlton Cole, who scored on his debut for the Londoners at the end of last season, is the man who has come in for Bent and his physical presence could prove to be a significant asset as the tournament develops.
Off the field too, England have sent out a strong coaching side to usher England's future stars through arguably the toughest test of their burgeoning careers. Head Coach Martin Hunter and F.A. Director of Technical Development Les Reed are joined here in Norway by Norwegian League-winner Stuart Baxter, plus the former Spurs duo Clive Allen and Tony Parks.
It all kicks off tonight at 6pm local time, 5pm English time. You can follow the game live on British Eurosport or log onto TheFA.com for a full match report.