Local lad Callum Robinson looking forward to Burton return

Sunday 25 May 2014
Robinson has three goals in three appearances for the U19s
England U19 star Callum Robinson says he is thrilled to be heading ‘home’ with the Young Lions on Monday evening.

Noel Blake’s side take on Scotland in the second match of their UEFA Euro U19 Elite Round at Burton Albion’s Pirelli Stadium, and it is a ground and area the Aston Villa youngster knows well.

“We play our U21 games for Aston Villa at Burton so I’m used to the pitch and the facilities," he said.

“It’s great to be playing a local game with England and hopefully a few people can get out to watch it.  

"My friends will be there, my Mum and Dad and a few of their friends will all be there too so I’m looking forward to the game.”

U19s next game

England v Scotland 

UEFA Euro 2014 Qualification 

Elite Round 

7.30pm, Monday 26 May 

Pirelli Stadium, Burton 

£3 adults, £1.50 concession

Robinson has become something of a super-sub for the U19s this season – coming off the bench and scoring in each of their last three outings, including a 30-yard stunner in Saturday's opening 6-0 victory over Montenegro – a strike the 19-year-old said was his best yet.

“To score for your country is one of the best feelings ever, no matter what level it is. Obviously to come on and do that in each of the last three games is fantastic,” he added.

“I took a touch and thought ‘I’m just going to go for it’. I knew it was near the end of the game – so I just wanted to get the ball out of my feet and strike it. It came off with a bit of dip and swerve so I was delighted to see it fly in.

“It’s definitely the best goal I’ve scored in an England shirt. It was about 30 yards out so it was special. 

“It’s great to score any goal, but to score for your country is very special. It meant a lot to me.

The U19s won their last match 4-1 in Hungary

Robinson celebrates his strike in Hungary in November

“My Mum and Dad were both there so I think they were both up cheering when that flew in.”

A level headed character, his consistency and conduct on and off the pitch are exemplary – and the 19-year-old knows it is up to him to continue the good work and force his way into Noel Blake’s starting eleven.

Next up for the Young Lions is a game against rivals Scotland at Burton Albion on Monday night – an opponent Robinson also has fond memories of playing against.

“I played against Scotland in the Victory Shield – that was about three years ago now I think,” he said. 

“Playing against Scotland was my first ever game for England, in the U16s. 

"I remember it was live on Sky Sports – which was my first time playing on TV, and also my first time playing for England. So that was a really good night – a night I’ll never forget.”

England play Scotland at Burton Albion's Pirelli Stadium at 7.30pm on Monday 26 May.

Tickets are available on the gate and are priced at £3 for adults, £1.50 for concessions.

By Jamie Reid Senior Writer St. George's Park