Baker will effectively be a match observer for the tournament, which will be held in Finland from 13th to 30th August, and will assess the success of the 9.15m advancement experiment, which is currently running in the Professional Leagues in England. The results of this assessment will report on the referees' knowledge and correct application of the rule, demonstrate the extent to which it facilitates the speed at which the game is restarted after free kicks and reflect how positively the rule is adopted into the game.

"English football is in its 4th year of applying the 9.15m advancement experiment", explained Baker, "and our clubs and managers agree it is an improvement to the way the game is played.

"It will be interesting to see how well it is received in international competition".

Baker is looking forward to the tournament but, like the rest of us, is disappointed he'll not be able to see England's Young Lions there.