Striker in England under-21 squad.

Sunderland striker Connor Wickham has been named in the England under-21 squad.

The young Lions will take on Northern Ireland at Blackpool’s Bloomfield Road next Tuesday (November 13, KO 7.30pm).

A win on the Fylde Coast would wrap up a perfect 2012 for Stuart Pearce’s side.

They have not conceded a goal all year throughout the final stages of qualification for Euro 2013, with Wickham sealing their spot at next summer’s tournament with a goal against Serbia recently.

Coach Pearce told thefa.com: “I’m proud of how well the team has performed this year to clinch qualification for the Finals yet again.

“We are now one game away from a sixth consecutive victory, a feat not achieved at under-21 level for over 20 years.”

Meanwhile goalkeeper Jordan Pickford will link up with the England Under-19 squad ahead of next week’s game against Finland.

The youngsters are in action next Tuesday (KO 7.30pm) at the New Bucks Head Stadium, home of AFC Telford.