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NEWS: Declan Rice lauds future of England’s midfield in Euro 2024 squad

At 25, Arsenal midfielder Rice is the oldest midfield option in Gareth Southgate’s ranks and will pick up his 51st cap in Friday’s final warm-up game against Iceland.

Players of England line up as they wear the new England kit that features a redesign of the St George's Cross during the friendly international soccer match between England and Brazil at Wembley Stadium.

At 25, Arsenal midfielder Rice is the oldest midfield option in Gareth Southgate's ranks and will pick up his 51st cap in Friday's final warm-up game against Iceland.

Two women looking excitedly at cellphone

Mainoo, 19, impressed on his senior debut during the March international break having enjoyed a fine breakthrough season at Manchester United that culminated in a goal in the FA Cup final win over Manchester City.

Meanwhile, 20-year-old Wharton worked his way into Southgate’s squad having hit the ground running at Crystal Palace following a January move from Blackburn.

He came off the bench to make his debut for the Three Lions in Monday’s 3-0 friendly win over Bosnia and Herzegovina and made enough of an impression that he survived Thursday’s cull to make Southgate’s 26-man squad.

“I think we saw in the last camp against Belgium and Brazil what Kobbie could do,” said Rice.

READ: Jose Mourinho says England’s Harry Kane has potential to dominate at Euro 2024

“Obviously the last six months, all season really, what he’s done at Man United and he clearly deserves his place in the squad.

“Adam played his first half of the season in the Championship, came to Crystal Palace and has been outstanding.

“I think in training he’s impressed a lot of players, he is so composed and calm on the ball. He’s got a beautiful left foot, just a really down to earth boy, wants to learn.

“He still is obviously only 20 years old but to be on the plane to go to his first European Championships, what a moment for him and his family.”

“I know he’s one who won’t take it for granted, who’ll be ready when called upon and I think you saw the other night how composed he is and he’s ready for the big stage.

“I think he’s one of those that doesn’t get fazed by big things. So they are two great additions and the future’s looking bright in midfield.”

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