Following their 1-2 win over Czech Republic U21s on Friday night, England U21s have a chance to all but seal their progression to the tournament which takes place next summer in Georgia and Romania.
The Young Lions remain unbeaten in their U21 group under manager Lee Carsley, who took over the role following England's group stage exits under Aidy Boothroyd in 2019 & 2021 and the former Everton midfielder has made a strong start to the role with a single draw coming against Slovenia in October.
Friday night's win against the Czech Republic was sealed by goals from Aston Villa's Jacob Ramsey and Arsenal's Emilie Smith-Rowe, two players who have been nominated for the PFA Young Player of the year alongside Manchester City's Phil Foden to underline the quality of this England squad.
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City are represented by James Trafford, who shone on loan for Bolton Wanderers last season along with fellow City academy teammates Taylor Harwood-Bellis and Tommy Doyle. Meanwhile, James Garner of Manchester United will represent the Red Devils having impressed on loan as Nottingham Forest gained promotion to the Premier League.
A call-up to the squad since the last fixture has been City's James McAtee and Premier League 2 Player of the Year who has been praised for his versatility by the England boss, he said: “We really rate him highly,” Carsley said. “He can play anywhere: seven, eleven, ten, nine, eight. He's a good footballer. I was lucky to see him at City when I was there with the younger age groups. He's one we've kept an eye constantly.”
How to watch England U21s vs Albania U21s?
The Three Lions are in action on BBC iPlayer and BBC Red Button for their 8:45pm kick-off. There will also be coverage on the BBC Sport website.
