Patrick Vieira blasts English youngsters

Patrick Vieira has accused English youngsters of not loving the national team.

Manchester City’s Football Development Executive said: “When I grew up in France, I dreamed of playing for my country. I don’t think young players are dreaming of doing that any more in England.

"I don’t understand why so many from the age of 16 to 21 pull out of national teams through injury. Maybe it’s the lack of FA ‘power’.”

He added: “For a big country like England, with the number of kids who love the game, you don’t produce enough talent.”

Arsenal legend Vieira’s words will sting the FA in the week that the new St George’s Park national football centre opened in Burton.