Spence aims to lead England through

England could book their place in the UEFA European Under-17 Championship semi-finals early this evening, and captain Jordan Spence has his mind firmly focused on claiming victory against Belgium.

'Great bond'
Having beaten Iceland 2-0 on Wednesday, three more points against the hosts in Tournai would ensure England a top-two finish in Group B and a semi-final berth, as well as qualification for the FIFA U17 World Cup in Korea Republic. And West Ham United FC defender Spence, who has led the team since they were U16s last season, is enjoying the experience. "The spirit is good," Spence told uefa.com. "There is a great bond between us all, we are all pulling in the right direction to qualify for the World Cup and get as far as this competition as possible."

Hosts await
Meeting the home nation, who drew 2-2 with the Netherlands on Matchday 1, will ensure a good crowd. "It's good to play on that sort of occasion - Belgium will also be looking forward to the game," Spence said. "But regardless of the crowd or opponents, there are important points which are the key."

Captaincy honour
As the captain, Spence takes his role seriously. "It's an honour," he said. "I don't think it can be surpassed in my footballing career to date. To have the opportunity to captain your country is something you can't take for granted, that I love and enjoy."

Peacock leadership
Spence's side have one of the most experienced coaches at this level in John Peacock, who has helped England to four of the last five U17 final tournaments. "I have learned a lot," Spence said. "This is a transition year and the main thing to get the winning mentality. We have to be critical of ourselves and get results. John is good in his motivation and coaching, he is a fantastic manager to have at a young age."

Sarajevo experience
England travelled for their Elite round campaign to Sarajevo, and pipped Serbia in a very tight group, an outcome Spence believes will help them in Belgium. "It was a different experience - something that none of us had ever come across before," he said. "We had a lot of snow before the first game and the culture is very different. It was fantastic and we did very well to get to this stage, an experience that will stay with us for a long time."

Victory hope
That has given them the chance to gain England's first title at that level, but if they make it, Spence knows that the honour of receiving the cup would come to him. "That would be a great opportunity," he said. "But we would all lift that trophy together and hopefully we will have the chance."