Roy Hodgson: Under-21 experience crucial for England players

England manager Roy Hodgson says it is crucial that the country's young stars gain experience in the Under-21 side.

England have been drawn alongside hosts Israel, Norway and five-time winners Italy in the 2013 Uefa Under-21 Championship.

Speaking to BBC Sport's Dan Roan in Brazil, Hodgson said: "You can't deny the importance of tournament experience.

"For our players, we've got the under-20s in Turkey, the under-21s in Israel. I shall work very closely with the two coaches to make certain I'm not depriving someone of the chance to play in a tournament for the sake of one game.

"I really do hope the clubs appreciate the value of their players getting that experience, because it won't only help them internationally, I think it will help them with their club careers."