Youngsters boost England

West Ham United pair Matthias Fanimo and Blair Turgott helped England's Under-16s get off to a winning start at the prestigious Montaigu Tournament on Wednesday.

The Academy midfielders both started for Kenny Swain's side as they beat Ukraine 3-1 in their opening group-stage fixture at the Stade De La Vie in St Gilles Croix De Viein, France.

England, who won the competition last year, will continue their quest to retain the title when they face Gabon on Friday. The African nation were beaten 3-0 by Japan in their opening match on Wednesday.

The other group consists of France, Benin, United Arab Emirates and Portugal, with the two group winners meeting in the final on Monday 5 April.

Fanimo and Turgott (pictured) have been in fine form for the Hammers this season, appearing regularly for Tony Carr's U18 side. Fanimo, a wide midfielder, scored West Ham's goal in their 1-1 FA Premier Academy League draw with Bristol City at Little Heath last Friday.

Elsewhere, Academy striker Robert Hall is preparing for England's second UEFA European U17 Championship Elite Round qualifier with Slovakia at Northampton Town's Sixfields on Thursday evening.

Having beaten Sweden and Malta in their opening two fixtures, England need just a draw to qualify for the finals, which will be held in Liechtenstein in May.