Everton’s Jack Rodwell sees England Under-21s experience as vital for his development

Jack Rodwell, Everton (Getty Images)

Related Links

Teams

Players

Everton midfielder Jack Rodwell believes it is beneficial to play for the England Under-21s before making the step up to senior level.

The 20-year-old, who has been tipped for a future call-up to Fabio Capello’s side, says his experience in the youth set-ups will help his development as a player.

Rodwell told Everton’s official website: “International football gives you a whole array of experiences, whichever group you are with.

“The set-up is generally the same from team to team, so there’s nothing really different depending which squad you’re in.

“I also think it’s important that rather than players turning up to squads and not playing, it’s better if they actually play games.

“So if they’re in the Seniors or Under-21s and not playing, it is better for them to be in their age group and playing and getting that experience if they’re still eligible.”

Rodwell also spoke of the superb team spirit within the England camp, and says that this is because a large proportion of the squad have represented the Three Lions at various age-group levels.

He added: “A lot of the players I’ve known since I was in the U16s. I remember playing with the likes of Henri Lansbury, Nathan Delfouneso, Danny Rose, Jason Steele and Danny Welbeck.

“There is a good team spirit in the squad though, as we’ve been bonding for a few years now and any of the newer players are always welcomed into the team when we all get together before the games.”

Our  provides the best breaking news online and our  football fan community is unmatched worldwide. Never miss a thing again!