BBC SPORT | FOOTBALL | Platt: We can win it

David Platt says his England Under-21 side have the ability to win the European Championship after qualifying for next year's finals.

They secured their place in the tournament with a 1-0 win over Holland at Derby's Pride Park, giving them a 3-2 play-off triumph on aggregate.

Michael Carrick underlined his claims for a senior promotion in front of Sven-Goran Eriksson with the decisive goal.

The focus should be on the World Cup for a lot of individuals that are in my squad

David Platt

But Platt was full of praise for goalkeeper Chris Kirkland.

The former Coventy player, who has largely been on the bench since his move to Anfield this season, produced a string of top-class saves.

Platt declared: "I thought he was exceptional.

"Holland played very well and perhaps deserved to score, but that's what Chris is there for and he did his job very well."

When Platt took charge of the side this summer, they were third in their group behind Greece and Germany.

Belief

But victories in their final three games transformed England's fortunes.

Against the spirited Dutch, Platt admitted that "we rode our luck a few times".

But the coach believes his team now have the talent, confidence and belief to win the eight-team competition next May.

Michael Carrick celebrates his winner
"If our mission was to qualify, then it's mission accomplished," he said.

"But the focus changes now to going to the European Championship, looking to win it and believing we can win it.

"I believe that we can win it if we apply ourselves in the right manner with the ability that is in English football - I'm going to pick a very strong squad.

"It's great for the country that they will have an opportunity to experience tournament football as it's essential for their development."

Vying

Goalscorer Carrick is one of those in the running for a promotion to the senior side for February's friendly against Holland.

Also vying for senior squad slots are the likes of David Dunn, Ledley King, Wayne Bridge and John Terry.

Dunn had a quieter game after his sparkling display in Utrecht, while the defensive trio were relatively assured.

Owen Hargreaves and Joe Cole could also come into the equation after injury.

Platt said: "Everyone is looking for the new kid on the block and quite rightly so.

"The focus should be on the World Cup for a lot of individuals that are in my squad.

"But they will get in the World Cup by not believing what is written about them, rather by performing week in and week out."


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