Sears and Tomkins make cut

Freddie Sears and James Tomkins have been confirmed in England's 18-man squad for the European Under-19 Championship in the Czech Republic between 14-26 July.

The duo spent the first part of this week at the National Football Centre in Burton-on-Trent before returning to club duties for the start of pre-season training this morning. They will link up again with England before heading out to Liberec next week for the tournament's opening game against the host nation on Monday 14 July. The Czechs have not named goalkeeper Marek Stech in their selection.

Speaking to the FA.com, England coach Noel Blake, who works with head coach Brian Eastick, said: "We're taking a strong squad over to the Czech Repubic and a few of the players in the 18 have played first team games for their clubs, such as Victor Moses at Crystal Palace and both Tomkins and Sears with West Ham, so that's good experience for them."

In Group B of the eight-nation tournament, England will also take on Italy on 17 July and Greece on 20 July in Jablonec and Liberec respectively in the hope of reaching the semi-finals. Group A comprises Spain, Italy, Greece and Hungary.