Marley relishing challenge

UEFA European U19 Championship Finals
Group B
7-13 July 2008
France
Tournament Schedule - click here

Mo Marley admits that England face a tough test in the European Championship, which begins next week, but says that her players will relish another opportunity to pit their wits against the best teams from the Continent.

After reaching last year's final only to lose out in extra-time to Germany, the Young Lions will reacquaint themselves with the Germans in the tournament opener. Marley's players then face another historical rival in the form of Scotland three days later, before wrapping up the group stage against Sweden.

It could not be tougher, but Marley says that it is to be expected from an increasingly competitive tournament.

Marley told TheFA.com: "If you are going to succeed at international level, you will have to play the best teams at some point, so why not now?

"We did well in Iceland last summer and we want to build on that this year, but we know it is going to be tough. Germany are a very strong team, but we'll be giving it our all in every game."

Marley also admitted that the preparation could prove to be the difference, with a number of training camps and friendly tournaments providing the squad with good time to gel.

When England face Germany it will be the 16th match of the season for the team, and Marley said: "We have had the girls together for a week every month which has really helped them come together as a squad.

"It has been a busy year, and we have played a lot of matches at this age group, but hopefully that will stand us in good stead going into this tournament."