Back to their best
Julian Bennetts
Wednesday, 17 June, 2009
Kieran Gibbs is adamant the Under-21s will improve against Spain.
Click here to watch the full press conference
Kieran Gibbs says England Under-21s will soon be back to their best and can match any side in the European Championship when it comes to ability.
The Arsenal full-back - who has enjoyed a sudden rise to stardom after being pressed into service by Arsene Wenger during the final three months of last season - started in Monday's 2-1 victory over Finland.
And ahead of Thursday's second Group B game against Spain, Gibbs is adamant Stuart Pearce's side will improve and demonstrate the talent in a squad that has just four players who represent clubs outside the Premier League.
"Everyone has seen what we're capable of," said Gibbs. "In that first game we weren't at our best but over the next two games we'll get back to that.
"Spain will be technically gifted, and we'll have to remember that - their Senior side are European Champions.
"But looking at our team and the ability we have, we can match that."
And Gibbs says he is happy to play anywhere if it will help Pearce. The 19-year-old has appeared at left-back, on the left of midfield and in centre midfield for England, but admits he doesn't mind where he's picked as long as he's playing.
"When you're playing for England you're happy to play anywhere - as long as I'm not in goal." Gibbs joked.
"It's a great honour to play for your country and I've enjoyed the experience so far, so I'm happy to play wherever the gaffer wants to play me."
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