England U-21s (lead by Stuart Pearce and Steve Wigley) beat Slovenia U-21s 2-1 in a friendly at the KC Stadium this evening. Three City players played: Micah Richards, Nedum Onuoha and Michael Johnson.
The star man was undoubtedly Richards. Back in the U-21s because of his injury problems so far in 2008, he was played at right back: presumably at the behest of Capello, given that the right back slot is up for grabs in a way that centre half is not. With England playing 4-3-3 Richards dominated the right hand side, supporting his childhood friend Aaron Lennon.
From set pieces he was England's main goal threat, meeting most of Tom Huddlestone's free kicks and corners. Early on he hit the post and sent one straight to the keeper, so it was no surprise when he scored. Rising highest, he got a touch to the ball, and on returning to earth he poked the ball into the empty net. Substituted in the second half, he was given a warm ovation and was subsequently named Man of the Match.
Nedum Onuoha had a pretty good game at centre back. He was caught slightly out of position for Slovenia's early goal, although this could equally be put down to Richards. After that, he was never really troubled. Was sent up for set pieces and went close a few times. Substituted late on for David Wheater.
Michael Johnson started in a midfield three with Tom Huddlestone and Mark Noble. Had some very nice touches in the opposition half, but didn't look particularly comfortable in his position. Was often squeezed out by the bustling Noble or James Milner dropping back into midfield, so could not have the influence on the game his talent would warrant. Came off in the second half.
A good night overall. Richards was the best player on the pitch, but we knew that he would be. That Wes Brown is in the senior squad ahead of him is palpably absurd. Given our recent luck with injuries I was terrified that any of the three playing would break down, so for them all to come through unscarred, and playing at least fifty minutes each in a comfortable win, is a piece of good news.
Subscribe to:
Post Comments (Atom)
1 comment:
ok, its great weve got some good kids, yeah, they do well for the under 21s, yeah theyre homegrown and products of our very successful acadamy. BUT I DONT CARE WHAT THEY DO FOR THE U21S! all that shows is that they can do well when playing against kids, which proves nothing for when they play in the premiership. sorry to have a go, but if this news was reported to make me smile and give me hope, sorry, no sale.
Post a Comment