FA chief Sir Trevor Brooking says England U21's success at the European Championship is strengthening Stuart Pearce's chances of eventually succeeding Fabio Capello as Three Lions coach.

Brooking admitted: "You'd like to feel that progression is there. Fabio is here for three more years, but the experience Stuart is getting will benefit him when that opportunity arises.

"It certainly can't be doing Stuart any harm, that's for sure, but let's wait and see what happens."