Nketiah hopes Under-21s duty will ease Arsenal ‘frustration’

Eddie Nketiah has revealed his frustration at Arsenal over a lack of firstteam opportunities and will use the Under-21 European Championship to enjoy football again.

Nketiah has been named England’s captain for the group stages of the finals starting today against Switzerland in Koper, Slovenia, despite failing to make Mikel Arteta’s match-day squad for the past eight Premier League games.

Aidy Boothroyd, the Under-21s coach, has been calling Nketiah to check on him on match days, when he has been training on his own away from the first-team squad.

“It’s a part of football but one you don’t want to be involved in,” said Nketiah. “I believe in myself and my ability, I’m capable of contributing and helping the team. It’s frustrating not playing, but you channel that frustration in a good way and use your time wisely to prepare for the opportunity. I’m grateful for the chance to perform in this tournament and have a smile on my face again. It’s not the easiest for me. I’m grateful for the support and that he [Boothroyd] checked on me. Sometimes you get more of a chance to work on one-on-ones with the keeper and coach. I’m away with England now and whatever comes with that, comes.”

Boothroyd’s plans have been affected by the withdrawal of Mason Greenwood through injury on the eve of the tournament. His squad are in full lockdown at their hotel in

Ljubljana. Trent Alexander-arnold was not considered for a call-up despite being dropped from the seniors, leaving Callum Hudson-odoi as the only player with caps under Gareth Southgate.

Boothroyd is out of contract in the summer and will be looking to improve on England’s record in the tournament. They have progressed from the group stage only once since reaching the final in 2009.