Stuart Pearce says that he is pleased for Phil Jones after the defender was called up to the senior England squad for the Euro 2012 qualifiers against Bulgaria and Wales.
The 19-year-old was Pearce's first-choice captain for the under-21s, but the former England international says that despite Jones not making an appearance in Friday's win over Bulgaria, it will be a good experience for him.
"I spoke with Fabio and the reason Phil was with the seniors wasn't cosmetic. He was very close to starting.
"At the end of every international break I look and say 'how many young players were with the seniors and didn't play', and we have to make sure we maximise their football time.
"But I'm pleased for Phil being with the senior squad - he is an outstanding talent."
England currently lead Group G by three points over second-placed Montenegro and face Wales at Wembley on Tuesday.
Written by
Jack Prescott
Jack Prescott
