Hamburg defender Michael Mancienne believes playing abroad is great for the development of young English players.
The 26-year old former Chelsea centre-back has been in Germany since 2011 and has thoroughly enjoyed the experience of playing professionally in another country.
Mancienne, who has had previous loan spells with QPR and Wolves, suggests talented youngsters in England should consider broadening their horizons if they are battling for regular game time in their homeland.
"Young English players, if they're struggling to get regular football, should look at playing abroad," Mancienne told the London Evening Standard.
"You're on a big stage and a lot of clubs will see you from other countries, so it's something they should definitely consider.
"It's a different style of football but it might also help English players mentally. You're out of your comfort zone, in a place where people don't speak your language.
"I've learned a lot about myself during my time in Hamburg and I love the city and the fans. But if I did ever come back to England, I'd be a better player for my experiences here."
