England v Italy
Under-21 International Friendly
12.30pm, Saturday 24 March 2007
Wembley Stadium

England's Under-21s will take on Italy in the first match at the new Wembley Stadium on 24 March.

The match will be the second 'ramp-up' event at the new stadium with a 60,000 capacity in order to test facilities and obtain a General Safety Certificate from the London Borough of Brent.

It will also act as an important game for the England side as they build-up to this summer's UEFA European U21 Championship in Holland. The Three Lions, unbeaten for over a year, take on Italy again in their second group game in June.

Sir Trevor Brooking, The FA's Director of Football Development, says that the game will be one to remember for players and fans alike.

"It’s an exciting opportunity for everyone to get an early view of the Stadium," he said. "Everyone who has been there so far has been impressed. It’s a top-class stadium and one we will all be proud of.

"For the team, though, it’s more than simply a game at Wembley, it’s a huge preparation match ahead of the UEFA Under-21 Championship in Holland this summer.

"It’s a great chance for them to experience the stadium and will also be a learning curve for those players who have ambitions to progress as Wembley would become their regular ground for senior internationals."

Tickets have now sold out.