Redknapp won’t block young quartet from national service

Harry Redknapp has backed four of his youngsters to shine in France next week, as they represent England’s Under-19 side.

Steven Caulker, Andros Townsend, Ryan Mason and Dean Parrett have all been selected to play for their country and reports had suggested Spurs had complained to the FA in regards to the necessity of it.

But Redknapp has jumped in to quash those reports, insisting he is happy for them to be involved, despite the fact they will miss the opening stages of pre-season.

“I had a word with the chairman and the kids were released.

“It’s a great honour playing for your country and we wouldn’t want to stop them from playing. It’s important, whatever age group, whatever level. It’s something you strive for.

“I have never stopped anyone from playing for their country wherever they are from. I always encourage that and this is no different. If they need the kids, we will sort it out.”

Last month, Sir Dave Richards wrote to all clubs stating they wished to “prioritise player release in the Under-19s outside the competitive part of the season.”

Sir Trevor Brooking also feared that there were “three or four clubs who want to take them on pre-season trips.”

Spurs are not one of those clubs though and the quartet will link up with their fellow countrymen on the 15th of July.

England will face Austria, Holland and France in their group, with the top two sides going on to play the top pairing from Italy, Spain, Portugal and Croatia.

Any players picked will miss over two weeks of pre-season preparations.

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