Whatever happens in the other game between group leaders Germany and Belgium, England minds will be firmly focused on beating Ireland and Hunter believes that his players are in the right frame of mind for what is sure to be a tough test.

"The boys were buzzing in training this morning," the Head Coach told TheFA.com as the team made their way to the ground.

"We are going to make a few changes and bring in some of the fresher players so the hunger will most certainly be there.

"It's an important game and we know it won't be easy. Ireland will of course be well up for the game as will we. The players on both sides are familiar with one another from club level so it will undoubtedly be a highly competitive encounter."

Whatever happens today, though, Martin is in no doubt about the talent that this young squad has within its ranks.

"The pleasing thing is that we've definitely got players here with very bright international futures," he explained.

"We may have drawn our first two games against Germany and Belgium but you could still see a difference between the teams, particularly at the end when they were celebrating their draws like they had won the World Cup. That says something about the way in which they regard us.

"We have some very good players in this squad and it is by playing in these tournaments and learning from their mistakes they are going to get the experience that they need to go onto the Under-20s, Under-21s and, hopefully, the Seniors.

 

At the moment Germany look like favourites to reach the final by finishing top of the group but there may yet be a sting in the tail.

"The group is not dead and buried by any means," Martin confirmed. "We'll aim to do well in our game and then see what happens in the other one. We're all looking forward to it."

England take on Ireland this afternoon at 5pm English time, 6pm local time. If we win and results go our way elsewhere, England can still top the group and qualify for Sunday's Final.

Should we finish second in the group, we will play in the 3rd/4th play off which also takes place on Sunday.

A top three group finish will see the young lions qualify for the World Youth Championships next year.

Log on to TheFA.com at 4pm English time to find out England's starting XI.

 



From Daniel Freedman in Oslo