England handed tricky draw for U21 Euros

The draw was made in Bologna on Friday night and handed the Young Lions the unenviable task of facing the French, who are considered to possess one of the best U21 teams on the planet.

Croatia and Romania complete Group C and speaking after the draw, England boss Aidy Boothroyd said that he was pleased that his side will open their campaign against France on June 18.

"I'm really pleased we play France first," he enthused. "It means we can get straight down to it. They will think they can win and so will we.

"It should be a cracking game and it's one we can win. People say France will be our main rivals but Croatia and Romania are no mugs."

Meanwhile, the former Watford boss also urged his side to improve on their last showing in the competition, when they lost in penalties in the semi-final to eventual winners Germany two years ago.

"We want to go two steps better this time by getting to the final and winning it," he insisted. "We've still got those memories of the defeat to Germany on penalties and we'll be looking to erase those this time. It will not be easy. We have worked hard for two years and want something to show for it."

However, Boothroyd could be without a host of eiligible players, with the likes of Joe Gomez, Trent Alexander-Arnold and Ben Chilwell all expected to be involved in the UEFA Nations League finals with Gareth southgate's senior team.