Stuart Pearce is ready to stay on as Under-21s boss

STUART PEARCE says he will hold talks with the FA later this month after insisting for the first time he is keen to carry on as England Under-21 manager.

 
Stuart Pearce loves working with England's youngsters

Pearce has been in charge of England’s youngsters for six years and has led them to four straight Euro finals.

He has been linked with a return to club management at Wigan, but instead wants to carry on with the U 21s and will speak to his FA bosses after the finals, which finish on June 18.

Pearce said: “I’m looking forward to seeing Sir Trevor Brooking with regard to my future. I’m absolutely delighted with the job I do.

I’m absolutely delighted with the job I do

Stuart Pearce

“I really enjoy working with young players, have a real passion for it and I look forward to sitting down with the FA in two weeks’ time.

“I’ve had a fantastic relationship with [departing FA chairman] David Bernstein and I would fully expect [new FA chairman] Greg Dyke to come in and be a full part of the decision-making process. If Sir Trevor decides he’s dealing with it personally, fine. ”

England face Italy tonight in their first fixture, with Norway and hosts Israel to follow.

Pearce is sweating on striker Wilfried Zaha, who has a long-standing ankle injury, but he is confident England can reach the knockout stages. He said: “Italy are an outstanding attacking force. They are well organised, work hard and they will make a good impression.”

If England avoid defeat tonight Pearce should lead his side into the semis, where one of Spain, Germany, Holland or Russia will await.

copied from express.co.uk