Aidy’s boys to get head start

AIDY BOOTHROYD has revealed England Under-21s have hired a sports psychologist for the European Championship.

Boss Boothroyd (above) says predecessor Gareth Southgate recommended it after the U21s failed to get out of their group two years ago.

Boothroyd’s men aim to win the tournament in Poland when they fly out next week despite being drawn in Group A with the hosts, holders Sweden and Slovakia.

His squad features Premier League starlets like Jordan Pickford, Nathan Redmond and Demarai Gray. But he believes they still need mental help and has hired shrink Rebecca Symes.

Boothroyd explained: “Speaking to Gareth, we didn’t think we had that support last time so we will be taking a sports psychologist with us.

“You can be the most gifted player in the world and understand tactically what you’re supposed to do and when. But if you haven’t got that bit of confidence that makes the difference, you’re not going to get the medal.”