Futcher and Lacey on 'excellent' performance in Doncaster

England men’s under-20s boss Ben Futcher praised his players’ efforts after being held to a 1-1 draw by Japan at the Eco-Power Stadium in Doncaster.

The Young Lions head coach was pleased with his side’s performance and attitude during the last international camp of the year.

“I’m really proud of the players,” said Futcher. “Japan are an excellent team at this age group, so I’m really proud of the lads, I thought they were excellent.”

With the Young Lions still gelling both on and off the pitch, Futcher was impressed his how his team fared against a Japanese side who have already accrued a plethora of games together, making them a tough opponent.

“They [Japan] have played a lot together,” continued Futcher. “It’s tricky because a lot of our players have never played together; we only have short camps, and some of the players aren’t with us throughout the week because they’re filtering through to the under-21s.

“But their attitude and application this week has been absolutely first class, and I thought it was in the game.”

Shea Lacey opened the scoring for the Young Lions with a composed finish from inside the penalty area.

And the Manchester United forward is one of the aforementioned players who has caught the eye of England men’s under-21s boss Lee Carsley.

“Shea’s a top player,” said Futcher. “It’s been great to work with him.

“We thought he could have an impact tonight. He’s had a really good week – you saw the quality when he came on. Everyone’s been impressed with him.”

And Lacey himself spoke of the talent within the squad as the 18-year-old forward made an impact as a substitute, scoring on only his second appearance for the MU20s.

“I thought it was a good game,” said Lacey. “Japan are a good team, but we took our chance when we got it and let it slip at the end, but we’re just learning what to take from it.

“I got a chance just before it [the goal], but I thought I took my chance well when I came on.”

It has been a busy week for the teenager who has trained with Lee Carsley’s squad.

“It’s good to join him [Carsley],” continued Lacey. “Some of the players are top players playing in the top leagues. You want to get the call-up permanently and stay around.”

And Lacey, who received his first under-20s cap in October, is enjoying playing with his new teammates at this level.

“It’s good to play with new players,” added Lacey. “It’s about getting everyone playing together and getting used to each other, but you can see the ability everyone’s got.”