A pair of Newcastle United youngsters played as England U17s were dealt another shock defeat.
England have enjoyed huge success across various age levels in recent years but their qualifying campaign for the U17 European Championships has been dreadful.
Liam Bramley’s side lost to Scotland last week and were dealt their second defeat in as many games on Friday.
The Young Lions lost 1-0 to minnows Lithuania and can no longer qualify for the next stage of the qualification process.
A Tomas Jonayla free-kick was enough to beat the England U17s in Cumbernauld. Their next game comes against Sweden on Monday, November 3, 2025.
Two young Newcastle stars played the entirety of the match.
Sam Alabi playing for England U16s.
Photo by Angel Martinez – The FA/The FA via Getty Images
George Mair and Sam Alabi play as England U17s lose to Lithuania U17
Young Newcastle goalkeeper George Mair was between the posts for England in their defeat, while midfielder Sam Alabi captained the side.
England are now bottom of a group also containing Sweden, Scotland and Lithuania. They cannot reach the next stage of this qualification process, which is a far cry from the success this age bracket enjoyed back in 2017 when they lifted the World Cup.
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Newcastle fans are excited about Alabi’s potential, and the former Oldham youngster has previously trained with Eddie Howe’s first-team.
Mair has a lot of competition in the goalkeeping department at St James’ Park but has been a constant figure between the sticks in Newcastle United’s academy teams this season.