The U-21 Euros kick off on Wednesday, with the schedule split between March (group stages) and June (knockouts).
Hosted by Hungary and Slovenia, this years tournament sees an increase to 16 teams taking part.
England are there, in Group D alongside Portugal, Croatia and Switzerland. Spearheaded by record goalscorer Eddie Nketiah (who has 4 more goals than his teams-mates combined), and senior player Callum Hudson-Odoi adding experience, it is a decent looking squad.
The Portuguese have Francisco Trincao as their star turn, joined by the likes of Gedson Fernandes, Diogo Dalot, Vitinha and Fabio Vieira.
Croatia are largely home based players who I have not heard of.
Switzerland also rely mainly on Swiss league players, although Alex Jankewitz has made a few appearances for Southampton.
The favourites are France. Wesley Fofana, Odsonne Edouard, Jonathan Ikone, Alban Lafont, Boubakary Soumare, Matteo Guendouzi, Ibrahima Konate and Joules Kounde are some of the stars they have to call on, although they have suffered the loss of the star man - Houssem Aouar, as well as Moussa Diaby.
France are in Group C with Denmark, Russia and Iceland.
Spain are another well fancied team. Riqui Puig and Brahim Diaz are among their top players. Spain have gone with an old squad with just 1 player under 21 (ironically).
Italy join Spain in group B with Slovenia and the Czech Republic.
Germany and the Netherlands rekindle their rivalry in Group A. Yousoufa Moukoko is one of the youngest players here, but arguably the most hyped. Yet to be capped at this level, the 16 year old does have 3 goals in the Bundesliga already.
Bence Biro will be looking to write his name into the history books for hosts Hungary.
England games (all on Sky Sports)
England vs Switzerland - 14:00
Portugal vs England - 20:00
Wednesday 31st March 2021 |
Croatia vs England - 17:00