The perfect boost
Friday, 19 June, 2009
James Milner believes victory over Spain sets them up nicely for the semi.
James Masters
James Milner says England’s impressive victory over Spain will give the Young Lions the perfect boost going into the semi-finals of the European Under-21 Championship Finals.
The Aston Villa midfielder rounded off the scoring in Gothenburg on Thursday evening after Fraizer Campbell had given England the lead mid-way through the second-half.
And Milner reckons his side can continue their good run of form after clinching their second consecutive victory of the tournament.
“I’m not surprised that we’ve qualified so early because I know how good we are,” said Milner.
“This will give us a huge boost because we’ve shown the grit and determination we will need.
“It was a fantastic performance with just ten men against Finland and we did well to get through that.
“I thought against Spain we played really well, stopped them and restricted their chances to long-range efforts.
“We will want to beat Germany next, but it’s nice to get through.”
Milner’s 73rd minute strike made up for his first-half penalty miss but the former Newcastle and Leeds man says he was delighted erase the nightmare by grabbing the winner.
“I was disappointed,” added Milner.
“I changed my mind at the last minute and it was a good save. But it was nice we recovered and won.
“People have disappointments and it’s about how you react and luckily I bounced back and got on the scoresheet.”