Friday 19 October 2018 08:04, UK
Former Arsenal goalkeeper Jens Lehmann believes "overpaid" young English footballers lack the hunger to succeed abroad.
Speaking to The Sun, the ex-German international said he does not think many of these youngsters have what it takes to emulate the success of 18-year-old Borussia Dortmund winger Jadon Sancho.
Sancho's performances in the Bundesliga - where he registered one goal and six assists in 214 minutes - caught the eye of Gareth Southgate, leading him to become the first player born this millennium to be called up by England.
"It's a great way for English kids to gain good experiences in a very good league," Lehmann said.
"Sometimes managers in England, because of the competition and size of squads, don't like to pick these youngsters. But on the other hand, I feel some of these guys need to learn how to develop a good attitude.
"In England, they are overpaid. They are overpaid for nothing - and that's a challenge for them. I don't know if you will see many of this generation making massive differences for their clubs in the future.
"For a player, it's always good if you're hungry but not if you are on big money at the age of 18 or 19 years old and it's only for potential. In that case, I don't see the hunger coming up or still being there. You need to be rewarded in football - but not for potential."
Lehmann also warned young Premier League players who are considering moving abroad that they must be prepared to push themselves to the limit.
He said: "It's a general problem. You only find a few players who really want to die to win. Maybe die short-term for a new contract. But if you get that focus right, there will be success.
"Particularly the young players, they need to learn it's some kind of a gift to play football."
