Peter Taylor will give Portsmouth midfielder Gary O’Neil the captain’s armband as he begins his second spell in charge of England Under-21s.

Taylor, also the club manager of League One side Hull City, declared himself upbeat ahead of the game at The Riverside Stadium, and announced O’Neil would stand in for the last Under-21 captain Glen Johnson, who is in the senior squad this time.

O’Neil has captained the under-19s in the past and has been in past Under-21 squads as well, although this will be his debut at this level.

"Gary has experience of being the captain at different levels. I spoke the staff about him and they said he is someone who can handle the job well," said Taylor.

Several of Taylor’s squad were in Premiership action at the weekend including James Milner, Jonathan Stead, Stewart Downing and Carlton Cole.

And he said the incentive was there for the players to make an impact on Sven Goran Eriksson.

"I think a dozen players went from the Under-21s to the seniors when I was manager in my first spell. I’ve told the players there is a chance.

"Apart from the odd exceptions like Michael Owen and Wayne Rooney, players normally get their chance for the full squad by performing well at this level.

"We have a qualifying campaign coming up and we would like to get there because that provides great experience for younger players."

Taylor was a left-footed winger in his playing days and he is delighted there are number of left-footers in this squad.

"Stewart Downing and James Milner are left-footed but I’ve noticed in training they are comfortable with their right as well.

"I’ve also selected Daniel Harding of Brighton who is a very good left-back. This will be a good opportunity for him."

Taylor has a battery of firepower to choose from. Cole scored for Aston Villa at the weekend, Stead set up Blackburn’s goal against West Brom and both Dean Ashton and Darren Bent have scored at this level.

Sven is sure to take a close interest in the game. "He rang me up to wish me luck. He knows I have done the job before and will let me get on with it. I am sure we will be speaking about players during the season."