Jonny Howson

Leeds captain Jonny Howson made his debut for England U21s against Italy in Empoli.

Howson came on for the final thirty minutes in the 1-0 defeat.  England, who were undone by a late Italy penalty, had the majority of possession in the second half with promising attacking play coming down the wings. Jonny wasn’t really able to make an impact on the game, though when he was on the ball he looked as assured and confident as any other player on the pitch, picking good simple passes and looking strong in the challenge. He demonstrated good movement, making forward runs, applying good pressure and constantly looking to get on the ball – but none of this will come as a surprise to fans.

With the main concern for Jonny being the strength in depth of England U21 midfielders, he will have done his prospects no damage whatsoever, acquitting himself as well as any other player in the time available to him.

It’s sure to be a proud moment for Jonny and all Leeds fans. He certainly looked good in an England shirt and hopefully we’ll see him in it on many more occasions.