Aidy’s final rallying cry

from GEORGE SCOTT

AIDY BOOTHROYD has challenged England’s Young Lions to prove they can cut it in the Premier League.

His Under-21s side face Mexico today in the final of the Toulon Tournament aiming for a third straight title.

And boss Boothroyd believes his players need to take their chance to impress their club bosses.

“If they can do it at world level, they can do it in the Premier League,” said Boothroyd.

“We have some very talented players and they can play in the Premier League, I have no doubt.

“They just need a little belief and opportunity from some of the head coaches.”

Impress

Five of the side who beat Scotland 3-1 in Wednesday’s semi-final have top-flight experience, with Arsenal’s Eddie Nketiah scoring twice.

The 19-year-old made three Premier League appearances last season but now has to impress new Gunners manager Unai Emery.

“Whenever a young player has an opportunity they have to take it and Eddie’s certainly done it with his goals,” said Boothroyd.

“He should be with the Under-19s but he’s given me a problem for when I pick a squad in September.”

England drew 0-0 with Mexico in Group A last week.

Boothroyd added: “The fact we’ve done it (won the tournament) with two different managers and teams, and now we’re trying to make it a hat-trick, puts pressure on us.”