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Pearce in for the long haul as England U21 coach

Stuart Pearce will not walk away from his post as England Under-21 coach, even if his side fail to qualify for Euro 2011. Failure to qualify would be a severe blow for Pearce, particularly after the young squad went so close in the last two editions of the tournament.

But Pearce insists he has no intention of quitting the role, whatever the outcome of the impending games.

"If we fail to get the desired points we need I will be concentrating on the next qualification campaign," said Pearce.

"It gives me six months to look at other players and get a team ready. I have to bed that in. If we don't do it, we have to rebuild for the next.

"I don't stop people in the street and ask if they are backing me but I like to think people realise I am doing a good job for England.

"You have to ask (FA director of football development) Sir Trevor Brooking if that is the case. If you ask me, 'Am I enjoying my job and am on a learning curve?', then yes, I am. I enjoy this job, that is the bottom line.

"It is fantastic and part of my job is to make sure this age group is as successful as they can be and to promote players into the seniors."

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