England U21 coach Stuart Pearce is convinced of the quality of his new-look midfield.

Chelsea midfielder Josh McEachran, Manchester United youngster Nick Powell and Blackpool winger Thomas Ince are now seeing more action.

"I think what we have got at the moment in our squad is individuals that can really open up defences - clever footballers like Incey, Nick Powell and Josh McEachran," Pearce said.

"They are good footballers, but they are clever individuals on a football pitch as well.

"We made changes (against Northern Ireland) and one or two of the older heads who I expect to give us a solid base once again did exactly that for us, giving the younger element of the side the opportunity to play."