Jordan Spence is enjoying a well-earned rest but has already got one eye on the 2009 European Under-19 Championship in Ukraine this July.
The West Ham United defender captained the Young Lions during their successful qualifying campaign to reach the eight-nation finals. England have been drawn against the host nation, Switzerland and Slovenia after Friday night's draw. The finals get under way on 21 July, with the top two teams from the group progressing to the semi-finals to be played in Donetsk and Mariupol on 30 July. The final will be played in Donetsk on 2 August.
Spence's international involvement this summer after a successful loan at Leyton Orient has meant a shortened break but he intends to switch off from football - for a little while at least - before coming back with the aim of making his West Ham United breakthrough in 2009/10. "I've only really got a month off, which is slightly shorter than some of the other boys but I'll make the most of it and I'll take my time out to relax," he told whufc.com.
"I'm going out to Florida with friends and I'll be out there for about three weeks, but just like any other time football won't be too far from my mind. I've already packed my ball as I know that will come out on the beach. I might even try a few keep ups. I just want to relax and rest my body as it's been a busy end to the season."
The 19-year-old Academy product is also already tuned into good habits. "I'm quite blessed in a sense that I generally eat well but I can't seem to put weight on. I've been assured that will change once I get a bit older but I will be looking after myself and keep everything ticking over. When it comes to nearer the start of pre-season, I'll be getting myself to a good level of fitness as I want to hit the ground running."