Goalkeeper James Trafford played the full 90 minutes while City colleagues Cole Palmer and Tommy Doyle were introduced as second half substitutes as England's Under-21s beat France Under-21s 4-0 in a friendly played at Leicester's King Power Stadium.

All the goals came in the second half for Lee Carsley’s side as England’s youngsters inflicted a first defeat on France in more than a year.

Emile Smith-Rowe’s 51st minute header opened the scoring before three goals in nine minutes late in the game helped extinguish the French resistance.

Strikes from substitutes Noni Madueke and Curtis Jones on 77 and 79 minutes ended the match as a contest.

And Jacob Ramsey’s fine 84th minute finish then set the seal on the deal as the young Lions impressively overcame the challenge of a French side who had dominated the opening half.

Trafford, who is enjoying a fine season on loan at Bolton Wanderers, had earlier produced two vital stops in the first half in the East Midlands to deny the visitors.

IMPRESSIVE DISPLAY: James Trafford
IMPRESSIVE DISPLAY: James Trafford

On 34 minutes, Trafford produced a fine save to deny Rayan Cherki after a sweeping French move took the striker into the heart of the England box.

The goalkeeper then had to be alert again on 41 minutes to deny Kouadio Kone as the French pressed once more.

Doyle, who is enjoying an impressive season on loan at Sheffield United, and Palmer were both introduced on 78 minutes while Rico Lewis and James McAtee were both unused substitutes.

England’s Under 21s continue their build up for this summer’s European Championships with another friendly against Croatia at Craven Cottage on Tuesday, March 28, kick-off 7.45pm.