Preparations start for semi-final

  • Tuesday, 10 May, 2011
  • England U17s train in Novi Sad ahead of their semi-final.
  • England U17s
  • Jake Caskey and Kenny Swain.

Players getting ready for Holland, as Raheem's replacement is called up.

By Nicholas Veevers in Novi Sad.

Following Monday's progression into the semi-final of the European U17 Championship, the England squad's experience in Serbia continued on Tuesday morning.

After a resounding win against Serbia to reach the last four of the competition, as well as secure qualification for the FIFA U17 World Cup in Mexico next month, spirits were obviously high back at the squad's Novi Sad base on Monday evening.

It was back to work on Tuesday morning though, as the squad were taken for a light recovery session at their training base.

There was nothing too strenuous for the players, as Exercise Scientist Neil Gibson took the players through a few stretches and a loosening jog at FK Proleter before returning to the hotel for a further session in the swimming pool.

Following England's progress into the semi-final, Head Coach John Peacock took the opportunity to bring another body into his squad, following the return home of Raheem Sterling on Sunday. He will be replaced by his Anfield club mate Jack Dunn, who travels to Serbia today and is expected to be with the group in Novi Sad on Tuesday evening.

Meanwhile, UEFA confirmed the details of the semi-final ties late on Monday evening and England will be in action in the earlier game when they take on Holland at the Karadjordje Stadium in Novi Sad on Thursday morning. The match kicks-off at 11.30am local time, or 10.30am BST. The game will also be screened by Eurosport.

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