The Potters’ Talents Gain Important Minutes in this International Break
• Just 30 and 20 minutes for these Potters players with England U18
• Sol Sidibe and Jaden Dixon hope for more involvement in the second match of this international window
By Oscar Cortes
The youngest footballers of Stoke City continue to represent their national teams in the best possible way, not yet in their country’s senior squad, but in the youth teams, as they continue to develop and build their careers with the hope of one day representing their nation at the highest level.
This is the case for Sol Sidibe and Jaden Dixon, who are representing England U18 at a young age, looking to become two of their country’s most promising talents. Sol Sidibe, who has grown and developed well at Stoke City, and Jaden Dixon, a dependable and important center-back, both have the potential to one day represent the Three Lions in the senior squad.
READ MORE: Viktor Johansson Faces a Tough Match Representing His Country
An International Match Featuring Stoke City’s Talents
These two players represented England U18 in a challenging match. Unfortunately, neither of them started the game due to the depth of talent in England’s U18 squad, but they still gained valuable minutes to maintain their competitive edge before returning to the season with Stoke City. Sol Sidibe featured in England U18’s 2-0 loss against Sweden U18, playing 30 minutes, while Jaden Dixon played the last 20 minutes of the match.
The game was a difficult one, as Sweden U18 shocked England by scoring early, netting the first goal in the 10th minute and doubling their lead in the 20th minute. Sweden's attack was sharp and effective, leaving England U18 with a difficult task of trying to mount a comeback.
Despite their efforts, England could not overturn the scoreline. Sol Sidibe and Jaden Dixon came on in the second half, but unfortunately, the match ended 2-0.
The result was a disappointment for England U18 and Stoke City’s young players. Both felt they could have contributed more had they played longer. Sol Sidibe, known for his creativity in midfield, might have helped create clearer goal-scoring opportunities if given more time.
Meanwhile, Jaden Dixon’s defensive strength and height could have played a crucial role in preventing some of the early goals. Unfortunately, they watched the first half from the bench, during which Sweden scored the two decisive goals.