England U21's?

Question

Can someone explain to me, why some of the England U21 players are like 22 in the U21 squad, I thought you have to be 21 or under to play for the U21's. Could some explain that to me?

Some people have suggested there is a Cut of to still be a part of the U21's and it appears to be August, can someone clarify that? And is their any evidence from THE FA or UEFA?

Answer 1

If a player was 21 in the span of that year, he qualifies for U-21 duty.

Kieran Richardson was 22 years old last year but still qualified for the English U21 because it was still the year he had turned 21.

Answer 2

You have to be 21 or under at a certain date (end of August?) and count as U-21 for the rest of that season. Historically I think you could also play one or two ringers to give the kids some help but this is less of an issue now they play U-15 and U-18 internationally and most decent kids will be playing in the Premiership by then as well.

Answer 3

Its the same as when some people are months older even though they are in the same year at school....its after a certain date when the age limit starts.

Answer 4

Because on certain squads, especially, Rec leagues, they just want people playing. And some guys/girls aren't good enough to go pro, so they go to Rec leagues. I'm in a U17 league, I'm only fourteen, and the other teams in our sqaud are like 18 and 19 year-old.
cheers!

Answer 5

Really U-21, Is open age you may know it as reserves. usually older players play in u-21's in order to get fitness up from injury etc...

Answer 6

Fake ID,

Answer 7

I could, but you wouldn't understand it

Answer 8

does it really matter