Pearce earns England extension

Stuart Pearce is set to remain in charge of England's Under-21 side until at least 2011 after agreeing a new two-year contract with the Football Association.

'Love this job'
Speaking on the eve of England's opening match of the UEFA European U21 Championship against Finland in Halmstad on Monday, the 47-year-old – who was appointed in 2007 after two years' managing Manchester City FC and led the team to the semi-finals of that summer's U21 finals – said: "I've agreed a contract verbally, so as far as I'm concerned I've got a contract. I've loved this job for two years, it's been fantastic – not just doing the job and what that entails, but the learning curve. I consider myself someone who's still learning the ropes."

Learning curve
Pearce, capped 78 times by England during a 24-year playing career, has worked closely with senior national team manager Fabio Capello as part of his U21 role. "I've only been a manager for four years – two in the Premier League and two at Under 21 level – and I think another two years at this level would certainly do me good," he explained. "I'm around Fabio every day, that's helpful, and I'm working with the best young talent in England which is certainly helpful to any manager. When you see the focus of the players, every day I get out of bed I look forward to working with these players as I know they'll give me everything they've got."