England are European U19 champions for the first time since 2017 and the 11th time in history – tied with Spain for most titles – after a 3-1 extra-time win over Israel in Trnava, Slovakia on Friday.
England were led in 2017 by Chelsea’s own Mason Mount, who also picked up the Golden Player award. This year England were captained by Chelsea’s Harvey Vale, who also scored the winning goal in last night’s final.
And it was a truly brilliant assist, a perfectly placed and weighted cross from the right with the left, embedded at the far post by Karni Chukumeka. Vale had played most of the match at left-back, but was moved to the right wing late on to provide some attack in attack. Aston Villa’s Aaron Ramsey added an insurance goal minutes later to complete England’s comeback and trophy triumph. Oscar Glou gave Israel the lead just before half-time and Manchester City prospect Callum Doyle equalized early after the break.
Valle, who received some advice from Mount before the game, spoke shortly afterwards about the mentality of the group winners, which he set the tone for as captain
“We definitely didn’t ease up, especially in the first half. We never stopped believing. The cohesion in this group – all 21 players, all the staff, play a part in that. We never hide from the fact that we know we can win games regardless of the score. I feel like that really got us to this point and that won us this tournament.”
-Harvey Vale; source: UEFA
Vale are yet to agree a new contract, with his current one set to expire next season, but it is hoped the 18-year-old will soon put pen to paper and secure his future at the club.
Talks to parents of #CFC starlet Harvey Vale about how: • he feels guilty when his youth team loses • he asks mum to join #CFC from Fulham • senior players tell him to sign new contract • Tuchel welcomes him to training• Under 23s left https://t.co/b4nsZOE9E4
— Simon Johnson (@SJohnsonSport) May 9, 2022
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