England U21

The England national under-21 football team, also known as England under-21s or England U21(s), is the national under-21 association football team of England, under the control of the Football Association. It is considered to be the feeder team for the England national football team.

This team is for England players aged under 21 at the start of the calendar year in which a two-year UEFA European Under-21 Championship campaign begins, so some players can remain with the squad until the age of 23. As long as they are eligible, players can play for England at any level, making it possible to play for the U21s, senior side, and again for the U21s, as Jack Butland, Harry Kane, Calum Chambers, John Stones and Emile Smith Rowe have done. It is also possible to play for one country at youth level and another at senior level (providing the player has not played a senior competitive game in his previous country).

The U21 team came into existence in 1976, following the realignment of UEFA's youth competitions. A goalless draw in a friendly against Wales at Molineux Stadium was England U21s' first result.

England U21s do not have a permanent home. They play in stadia across England, in an attempt to encourage younger fans in all areas of the country to attend matches. Because of the lower demand compared to the senior national team, smaller grounds can be used. The record attendance for an England U21 match was set on 24 March 2007, when England U21 played Italy U21 in front of a crowd of just under 60,000 at the new Wembley Stadium, also a world record attendance for a U21 game. The match was one of the required two events the stadium hosted in order to gain its safety certificate in time for its full-capacity opening for the 2007 FA Cup final in May.

The England U21 team, officially known as the England Under-21 national football team, represents England in international football competitions for players aged 21 and under. As a vital part of the Football Association (FA), the U21 team serves as a crucial stepping stone for young talents aspiring to make their mark on the senior national team.

The squad is known for its rich history and tradition, having produced numerous world-class players who have gone on to achieve great success at the senior level. The team competes in various tournaments, including the UEFA European Under-21 Championship, where they have enjoyed notable success, including reaching the finals and securing a championship title.

Coached by a dedicated staff, the England U21 team focuses on developing young players' skills, tactical awareness, and teamwork, providing them with invaluable experience on the international stage. The team's playing style is characterized by a blend of technical ability, pace, and a strong emphasis on attacking football, reflecting the dynamic nature of English soccer.

The England U21 team plays its home matches at various venues across the country, often drawing enthusiastic support from fans eager to witness the next generation of football stars. With a commitment to nurturing talent and fostering a winning mentality, the England U21 team continues to be a beacon of hope for the future of English football.