John Peacock hails 'mature and disciplined' Young Lions

Thursday 07 May 2015
England U17s head coach John Peacock
John Peacock hailed the discipline and maturity of his side after after the holders defeated Italy in their opening European Under-17 Championship match.

A strike from substitute Marcus Edwards was enough to secure a 1-0 won in Bulgaria.

England 1-0 Italy

UEFA European U17 Championship
Group D
Thursday 7 May 2015
Lazur, Burgas, Bulgaria

"They were very disciplined and I was delighted with them from the start to finish," Peacock told TheFA.com moments after full tim

"We pretty much controlled the game throughout. I thought we got it right tactically, everyone knew their jobs and carried them out to a high standard."

Peacock added: "The maturity is a good point. People say that technically we don't have proficient players or as good as what's on the continent - I thought technically we were excellent.

"We were very brave on the ball and moved it around well."

Peacock introduced Edwards at the break in place of Layton Ndukwu, a move intended to provide his side with a sharper attacking edge.

"Yeah, a change like that does [look good on the manager]," said Peacock with a smile

"But I said to Layton that it was nothing on reflection with his performance, I just felt we had to be a little bit more clinical in the attacking third.

"It's nice when it comes off - it doesn't always do that. Everyone has played their part tonight though, even those on the bench, and we are all pleased with the outcome."

With only two days before their second group match against Holland, who drew 0-0 with Republic of Ireland earlier, Peacock is ensuring his squad remain grounded.

He added: "There's a lot of plaudits tonight, but we will keep it settled and their feet on the ground as it's only one game of three."


By Gary Stonehouse Staff Writer At Lazur Stadium, Bulgaria