Axel Tuanzebe primed for first international tournament with England

Photo: Manchester United

Axel Tuanzebe from Rochdale, Manchester United central defender

Manchester United central defender Axel Tuanzebe is in contention to obtain his first taste of tournament football at international level after making his maiden start for England Under-19s.

Tuanzebe, who was born in the Democratic Republic of Congo, was raised in Rochdale and attended St Cuthbert's RC High School. He made his first appearance at any level for England when coming on at half-time for Everton's Ryan Ledson during a 2-0 warm-up defeat to Mexico. The 18-year-old was then handed a start by coach Aidy Boothroyd for the second fixture against the Mexicans on Monday and played the full 90 minutes.

The young Lions will be in competitive action next month when taking part in the European Under-19 Championship finals in Germany. France, Netherlands and Croatia make up a tough Group B with England's opener against France being staged in Heidenheim on 12 July.

Tuanzebe made 10 starts and one substitute appearance for United's title-winning Under-21s this season and was on the first-team bench for the games against Crystal Palace and Bournemouth before sustaining an injury.

A spokesperson for St Cuthbert's RC High School said: “Congratulations to our very own Axel Tuanzebe who has made his first international debut for England Under 19s. Unfortunately they were defeated by Mexico, 2-0 but nonetheless, this is a great accomplishment for young Axel, who is currently playing regularly for Manchester United Under 21s. Keep up the hard work Axel.”