England Pride For United Boys

By Dan King - Newcastle United Club Reporter

Five of Newcastle United's Academy youngsters were on international duty on Thursday.

Freddie Woodman and Alex Gilliead both started for England under-17s in their final European Championships qualifying match and helped the Young Lions to a 2-1 win against Slovenia.

But it was not enough for John Peacock's side to progress to the summer's finals as Russia progressed from Elite Group Five despite losing to Portugal in the other group game.

England, Russia and Portugal all ended the group with six points but the Russians had the superior record in match-ups between the three teams.

Gilliead had made substitute appearances in the win over Portugal and the defeat to Russia and played the full game at the Pirelli Stadium in Burton while it was goalkeeper Woodman's first start of the campaign.

Forward Gilliead almost scored his first goal at international level but saw his late header superbly saved while Woodman made three good stops after England had Dan Crowley sent off.

Meanwhile Adam Armstrong started for England under-16s as they beat Chile 3-1 in their second game of the Montaigu Tournament in France. Kyle Cameron began on the bench but came on after 70 minutes and put in a solid performance in defence.

England now only need to draw with Germany in their final group game to top the table and reach the final.

In the other group, Turkey took on Portugal in Les Essarts with Daniel Barlaser on duty. The Newcastle winger played for 80 minutes in a 1-1 draw.