England need nothing less than a win against the Czechs to reach the U21 European Championship semi-finals.

Sunday's Czech Republic game a must-win clash for Young Lions

England need nothing less than a win to reach the semi-finals of the Under-21 European Championship in Denmark when they face Czech Republic on Sunday evening. Consecutive draws in their opening two games against Spain and Ukraine have left Stuart Pearce's Young Lions third in Group B and desperately needing three points to avoid crashing out of the tournament. Meanwhile, a draw will almost certainly be good enough to see Czech Republic through to the last four, unless rock-bottom Ukraine beat group leaders Spain in Sunday's other clash. The two teams have met four times at U21 level, with one win apiece and two draws, while their only competitive meeting at the 2007 tournament ended in a 0-0 stalemate. Some members of the England contingent could be out for revenge after Czech Republic beat the Under-19s side 2-0 at the 2008 European Championship.

Team news

Manager Pearce revealed on Saturday he was still undecided over the starting XI he will field at the Viborg Stadion, with Henri Lansbury or Fabrice Muamba possible standbys should the coach choose to freshen up his side. Captain Michael Mancienne, Jack Rodwell and Jordan Henderson are among those facing the axe after failing to impress against Ukraine on Wednesday. Pearce has allayed fears over Lansbury and defender Chris Smalling after both missed training on Saturday, revealing they will be fit for Sunday's game. Czech manager Jakub Dovalil is likely to keep faith in the same back four which has started his side's opening two matches. Jan Moravek is expected to replace Lukas Vacha in the middle of the park due to the 22-year-old being suspended. Up front, Vaclav Kadlec is available for selection after making his comeback from injury as a substitute against Spain.