Spurs News: Tom Carroll Speaks Of England U-21 Captaincy Pride

The out-on-loan midfielder couldn't be happier.

By K.J. Stewart /

Tom Carroll has told Tottenham Hotspur's official website of his pride after captaining England Under-21s in Moldova on Tuesday night. The creative midfielder - who is currently out on loan at Spurs' Premier League rivals Swansea City for the season - donned the skipper's armband as his team rounded off their qualifying campaign in the group phase of the European Under-21 Championship with a 3-0 victory in Tiraspol. Tom played extremely well, controlling the play from the middle of the park in his ninth appearance at Under-21 level, and spoke of his delight at being made captain by manager Gareth Southgate.
I was absolutely buzzing when the manager told me, I couldn't take the smile off my face! We went over a few things before the game and he asked me if I'd be captain. I was delighted. Every player would want the chance to captain their country and to do it was amazing. I let my parents know straight away. It was a proud moment.
West Brom's Saido Berahino scored twice and Carroll's fellow Spur Harry Kane's second goal in as many Under-21 matches secured the win. Alex Pritchard - who is on loan at Brentford from Spurs - came off the bench for his second cap to ensure the match ended with three Spurs players on the pitch. Carroll added:
It was the perfect way to finish qualifying. We played well, controlled the game and it was great to set-up Harry for his goal. I knew he was going to stick that chance away.
The midfielder has now returned to Swansea City and will hope to get more Premier League game time to help to cement his place in Spurs' first team next season. What do you think of Tom Carroll? Will he be a Spurs first-teamer next season? Are you delighted for him that he's been made England Under-21 captain? Let us know your thoughts in the comments section below. And please feel free to follow me on Twitter!