Preparations continue ahead of the forthcoming England under 19 International at New York Stadium, with boss Sean O’Driscoll relishing the prospect of visiting Rotherham.
Following the success of the England Women’s fixture with Canada and the England under 18s match with Germany, the FA have chosen New York Stadium for England’s clash with Italy on Friday 14th November, kick off 7.45pm.
Under 19s boss O’Driscoll, who managed Doncaster Rovers and Nottingham Forest amongst others, is looking forward to another England visit to the Millers home.
“Over 9,000 people watched England U18s beat Germany at the New York Stadium in April in what was a fantastic advert for youth football, and the players enjoyed that experience, supported by a vocal crowd,” he said.
“We hope this game will prove equally exciting against a top footballing nation and that people will leave the ground feeling positive and encouraged about the future of English football.”
O’Driscoll is expecting a stern test from the Italians as he continues to formulate his plans for the upcoming European qualifiers.
“Italy will undoubtedly give us a really good test and this forms part of our preparations for the Elite Qualifying Round of the Euros next spring,” added the former Bristol City boss.
“There is an exciting pool of talent at this age group. The squad has a good balance, there is strength in depth and people can play in different positions.
“The potential is there for this to be a really good team. Despite what people say about English footballers, on a technical level the players in this age group are as good as anything that’s out there in any country in the world. This is testament to the excellent work going on in the club academies where the players are nurtured.”
Tickets remain on sale for the fixture with full details available from the link below:
England Ticket Information