BELLERIN AND SPAIN SHOW THE WAY FORWARD

SPAIN’S dedication to the European Under 21 Championship is best defined by the presence of Hector Bellerin. Bellerin, with more than 100 Arsenal appearances, is arguably the best right back in the Premier League and wanted by Barcelona. For years, Arsene Wenger tussled with the FA to keep the likes of Theo Walcott, Alex Oxlade-Chamberlain and Jack Wilshere out of age-group tournaments but there is no question when it comes to Spain. Bellerin is wholly committed. So, too, are Marco Asensio, who scored for Real Madrid in the Champions League final, and Saul Niguez, who hit the decisive goal for Atletico in their quarter-final against Leicester. Bellerin said: ‘You see so many players who could be in the first team, like Asensio and Saul. It is a great approach because it humbles you. If you want to be in the first team you have to show how much you’re worth at Under 21 level. ‘People like Juan Mata, David De Gea and Ander Herrera have won this competition. They’ve moved into the first team, winning the Euros and the World Cup.’ This is not always the mentality shared in England, where players, encouraged by clubs and agents, have proved reluctant to step back into the Under 21s once they have been capped at senior level. Manchester United boss Jose Mourinho won his fight to keep 19-year-old Marcus Rashford out of the Under 21 Euros. ‘It’s not about age,’ said Bellerin. ‘If Rashford is ready for England he should play. Sometimes taking it slowly, taking a player through the paces is the best way to keep him wanting more. ‘If you’re there from the beginning, what else can you achieve?’