RONNIE IS ON THE RISE WITH POSH
RONNIE EDWARDS knows what it’s like for England to win the Euros – and hopes for a double celebration this summer.
Peterborough’s cultured centreback, the EFL Young Player of the Month for January, was part of the Young Lions Under-19 side who won the European Championship in Slovakia 18 months ago.
And in the thick of another battle on the upper slopes of League One, Edwards’ manager Darren Ferguson has the scent of a sixth promotion in his managerial career – five of them with Posh.
In a squad containing Liverpool’s Jarell Quansah, Chelsea’s Carney Chukwuemeka and Burnley’s Aaron Ramsey, Edwards (top) was a rock as England beat the previously impenetrable Israel 3-1 in the Euro 2019 final.
“We had a good team and the way we bonded together as a close-knit group was special,” said Edwards.
“That closeness off the field was reflected in the way we bonded on the pitch. We went on a run, something like 22 games unbeaten, leading up to the tournament and there was a winning mentality about that team.
“No matter who played, we were so good together as a team and it was an amazing time.
“You don’t want to say it until you’ve done it, but we always had a feeling we were going to win the final because that trust in each other, that belief, is what wins you a game when it’s tight.
“That tight bond definitely played a part in winning the tournament.”
Posh entertain Blackpool today after three straight defeats, but they are still well-placed to deliver Ferguson’s fourth promotion to the Championship – and for Edwards to come up against his England Under-19s boss, Ian Foster (above), against Plymouth next season.
He said: “It’s always nice to come against a familiar face, but I’m sure he (Foster) wouldn’t mind me saying there can only be one winner!”
Edwards, 20, admitted he was “surprised” by his EFL gong, but the posse of scouts tracking his progress is testament to his soaring value.
He added: “I’ve made 125 appearances for Posh and playing every week is massive for any player and I’m very grateful and happy that I’ve got that here at Peterborough.”