England U16s head coach Kenny Swain is looking to end the week on a high with a positive performance against Belgium on Friday.
The Young Lions have been involved in the UEFA Development Tournament at St. George’s Park along with Spain, Denmark and the Belgians this week.
Swain’s side have enjoyed mixed fortunes – losing 3-1 to Spain on Sunday but bouncing back to defeat Denmark 4-1 on Tuesday – but the experience gained and development of his youngsters throughout the week is the key thing for the boss.
And as they prepare for their final game Swain said he wants to see another positive display.
England U16s v Belgium U16s
UEFA Development Tournament
2pm Friday 14 February
St. George's Park
"We dominated the Denmark game for the most part and played some composed football,” said Swain.
"The evidence is there for them – we’ve shown them all the positives, and the negatives, from the two matches so far.
“Whatever team I select needs to keep their focus against Belgium, and we’ll be delighted if they can produce a similar performance to that against Denmark."
England have given two impressive attacking displays in their previous matches, and it is these sort of features, added to a bit of traditional value, that will help shape the future DNA of football in this country.
Swain added: "We have got English qualities that we’ve always had and will always keep – but we are always looking to improve our technical ability and our composure in possession.
"And managing games, which has always been difficult for English youth teams, managing the flow of a match and seeing it out.
"With the way we are playing, and what we are teaching, that will be quickly established as part of our DNA."
