It’s just come to my notice that England Under-21s are actually a quite brilliant side! They haven’t lost for three years and in that time they’ve won 16 and drawn nine, averaging over two goals scored per game. Not bad going by anyone’s standards.

With several of those all-conquering kids already in the full squad I took a look at the Under-21 squad for tonight’s play-off match in Wales to see which ones I fancy to make the step up – next.

Joe Hart

In my view he’s ready now. I’d look to the future and give Hart the gloves for Kazakhstan and Belarus. David James and his understudies are not untouchable and more than that, they are all getting on a bit.

Mark Noble

If you stuck Noble in Arsenal’s midfield I am confident he’d not look out of his depth. The boy has class. He can pass, he can tackle and he’s always on the move. Noble’s an intelligent player who will easily be good enough for the full England team by 2010.

Gabriel Agbonlahor

Gabby’s got as much pace as Theo, well almost, and has a better scoring record so I’m certain he could make the transition to the full side. We are short on speed and players who scare defenders and Agbonlahor will frighten most defenders.

They are my choices. Which other lions would you promote to the first team soon?