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Lane kid relishing England chance to impress
ALL eyes will be on Pride Park this evening, where the England under-21 squad attempt to continue their recent good form by claiming the sought-after scalp of free-flowing Holland.
But while Peter Taylor's side look to impress against the men in orange, Sheffield United defender Simon Francis will attempt to cement his own international future with a solid performance against less glamorous opponents.
The arrival of the Dutch (Sven's senior squad complete the double-header at Villa Park tomorrow) means the under-20 fixture against Russia at The Valley has been largely overlooked by media and supporters alike.
But Francis knows the game represents a valuable opportunity to not only catch Taylor's eye ahead of the forthcoming European Championship qualifier against Germany at Hull but also stake a claim for a starting role at club level.
A spate of niggling injuries and illness have halted the progress the former Bradford City defender made after arriving in South Yorkshire towards the end of last season, with United manager Neil Warnock preferring to ease him gently back to fitness via the substitutes bench rather plunge him straight into the hurly-burly of a promotion battle.
That, of course, leaves Francis in something of a Catch 22 situation, lacking the sharpness that comes from playing games but, given the delicate nature of United's forthcoming fixtures, lacking the chance to rectify the situation. However, a solid display against the Russians, rated by Francis himself as one of the most technically adept nations in the business, would go a long way towards forcing Warnock's, and possibly Taylor's, hand.
"This should be a good test because Russia, like most Eastern European teams, are going to be well-organised and clever on the ball," he said.
"It's been a frustrating time for me lately but I feel ready to take part now (at United).
"I'm fit. I just need some games so I'm really looking forward to this. But, most of all, it's always an honour to represent your country. I'm sure I can pick up a few things which will help me be a better player.
"I'll be going into a new environment and that will be good experience."
United's relationship with the England selectors has not always been easy, with Warnock lambasting the under-21 staff for ignoring the claims of Phil Jagielka and Michael Tonge last year.
Although both were capped, they were criminally under-used, with Warnock accusing the Football Association of Premiership bias.
Francis, though, is confident that he will feature at Charlton.
"It's seems to be a bit of a tradition that most of us will get a game, so hopefully I'll be on at some stage," he said.
"Russia will provide us with a stern test and the game at Charlton promises to be a great occasion for local fans to enjoy."
This evening's outing will be the under-20s' second of the season and they will be hoping to build upon their 1-0 victory over Holland in Huddersfield last October.
Coach John Peacock said: "This fixture is vital in preparation for the Under-20 Toulon Tournament in France in June."
Meanwhile, United are holding half-term soccer schools at Shirecliffe Academy and Heeley next month.
The five-day courses, which start on February 14, are designed for boys and girls aged 6 to 13 and cost 45.
Usual discounts apply.
For more information telephone 0114 2929402 or collect a form from the academy.
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Weather for Sheffield
Saturday 26 May 2012
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Temperature: 9 C to 21 C
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Temperature: 11 C to 21 C
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