by Neil Weld
Pompey defender Sam Magri has helped England qualify for the UEFA European under-17 Championship.
The 17-year-old centre-back played in all three elite round qualifying games as the Three Lions beat Northern Ireland (3-2), Belgium (2-1) and Spain (2-1) to book their place at the tournament which will be held in Serbia in May.
Pompey academy manager Andy Awford said: “It’s been fantastic for Sam to play against some top sides and hopefully he’ll be selected for the finals.
“The top six sides there qualify for the World Cup in Mexico which is an even more exciting prospect.
“Sam has been in the England squad for around 18 months and it’s been great for his development.
“I watched him against Spain and he did very well. I was impressed with England – they fought hard but also looked technically good.
“Sam has represented Pompey well in terms of both his performances on the pitch and his conduct off it. He’s a credit to the club and we’re delighted for him.”
England go into the European Championship as reigning champions after winning last year’s competition in Liechtenstein.