'Help for the future'

	31 January 2008
	VIDEO: Stuart Pearce press conference in Southampton
	Stuart Pearce has named his England Under-21 squad for next week's game with the Republic of Ireland.

2009 UEFA European Under-21 Championship Qualifier
7.45pm, Tuesday 5 February 2008
St.Mary's Stadium, Southampton FC
Live on Sky Sports

England Under-21 Coach Stuart Pearce has revealed how he hopes the experience gained from his players in their bid to qualify for the European Championships next year can only stand them in good stead for possible future appearances at senior level.

"It's a strong squad for an important game that we have to win to get into the play-offs," he said, ahead of Tuesday's game at Southampton FC’s St.Mary’s Stadium.

"If I can get the team to the Championship and give the experience to the players, then they can gain from that and it can only help the full side in the future.

"If we get the World Cup in 2018, many of these players will be at their peak and the experiences they have had in the past will go with them.

"We need to make sure players get as much experience at the younger age groups as possible."

With senior Manager Fabio Capello also announcing his Three Lions squad on Thursday, Pearce’s squad was affected by the selection of striker Gabriel Agbonlahor for the game with Switzerland on Wednesday.

Given the Aston Villa man’s form for both club and country over the last few months, that came as no surprise to Pearce and the player goes with everyone’s best wishes although he feels there is ample talent to replace him.

"Gabby's going with the seniors and we've got five or six injuries on top of that, but there's a lot of experience here," he added.

"Gabby's got extreme talent so I'm delighted to see him take the step into the seniors."

Tottenham Hotspur winger Aaron Lennon was also named in the Under-21 squad, after previously being involved in the senior ranks and Pearce feels that he will benefit more by playing games in the Under-21s, whilst still under the watchful eye of Capello.

"We need to see him play, Fabio Capello is very interested in seeing him,” revealed Pearce.

"From my point of view, if a player is of the age to play in the Under-21s, they will get more experience actually playing than not getting a game with the seniors.

"He's only got two caps for the Under-21s and you wouldn't say he has been a regular for the seniors over a period of time. It's the first time I would have worked with him so I'm looking forward to it.”

The England Squad