Bertrand confident of World Cup glory
England U20 2, Italy U20 0: England's preparations for the Fifa Under-20 World Cup got off to a fine start at Loftus Road last night, as first-half goals from captain Ciaran Clark and striker Daniel Sturridge saw off the challenge of Italy.
England U20 2, Italy U20 0
England's preparations for the Fifa Under-20 World Cup got off to a fine start at Loftus Road last night, as first-half goals from captain Ciaran Clark and striker Daniel Sturridge saw off the challenge of Italy.
Norwich loan player Ryan Bertrand was among the team to taste victory over the Azzurrini and believes the young Lions' team spirit can carry them to World Cup glory in September. The 19-year-old, substituted in the 76th minute, insists England have a major chance at the global event in Egypt after gaining experience as part of the squad that reached last year's European U19 Championships.
England failed to qualify for the semi finals after an opening defeat to host nation the Czech Republic but bounced back to draw with Italy and hammer Greece.
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"It should be a massive advantage for us," said the City loan starlet. "A lot of the boys in the squad have grown up together since the U17 team, so it's been a good experience for all of us and hopefully we can gel together again and do well.
"Out of all the boys that we've got, we try to play football and a lot of us are now playing first team football so that shows the progress that we've made as individuals and hopefully that can now benefit us as a team."
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Bertrand's 35 senior appearances with the Canaries since initially joining on loan from Chelsea in July 2008 has also helped him force his way into Stuart Pearce's U21 plans.
The Londoner earned him a full England U21 cap earlier this season when he was introduced as a substitute for the friendly win over the Czech Republic at Bramall Lane.
"It was great to be involved with the under-21s this season and obviously that's the main aim for all of us now because that's the next level," he added. "With the build-up to the World Cup, there are going to be a few chances to impress and if we want to progress to the under-21s we've got to make sure we play well and that we do well in the competition. I think everyone knows that if we can do that, we might get our chance."
