England’s pointless displays threaten Pearce

Having arrived on a run of nine successive wins without conceding, the tournament has been nothing short of an unmitigated disaster for the Young Lions.

The 1-0 opening-day defeat to Italy was labelled “awful” by Pearce, who then saw his side suffer a shock 3-1 defeat to Norway.

It was a result that not only put the knockout stage beyond England heading into last night’s Group A finale against Israel, but also seriously harmed Pearce’s chances of holding onto the Under-21s job.

The former international full-back’s contract expires at the end of the month but, despite making public his desire to stay, there have been few positive noises from the Football Association.

Pearce had a lengthy pitchside chat with outgoing FA chairman David Bernstein ahead of a first half in which England enjoyed more possession, but Israel looked sharper.

The hosts were also looking more inventive, epitomised in the second half by a wonderful 30-yard strike by former Manchester City trialist Nir Biton that rattled the crossbar. The Israelis showed much more drive, determination and appetite than an insipid England side, who deservedly went behind to Ofir Krieff’s goal with 10 minutes remaining.

The strike proved decisive as Israel ran out victors at the Teddy Stadium, sending England home with their worst record at an Under-21s tournament and leaving Pearce’s position looking more precarious than ever.

Biton had played the ball for Omri Altman to lay off to Krieff, who lashed home a low effort from 20 yards with 10 minutes remaining.

The Teddy Stadium erupted and manager Guy Luzon, in charge for the last time before taking over at Standard Liege, ran onto the pitch in celebration.

England pushed for a later leveller but none was forthcoming, as Pearce’s side went home in shame. Despite a squad boasting multi-million pound players, the Young Lions were devoid of ideas and looked to be lacking appetite.