Defenders Rhys Williams and Joe Bennett in particular put in fine performances in a 5-0 pre-season victory over over Darlington which has led the Boro manager to challenge them to prove they can step up to play in the Barclays Premier League.

"There are youngsters who have come into the squad throughout the pre-season period who have done themselves a world of good," Southgate said.

clean sheet

"For some of them it's still a long haul to get into that first team but everything they have done has been very impressive.

"The performance was enjoyable to watch and there was a clean sheet as well, which shows they were professional.

"There are loads of places up for grabs in the team and the squad and with seven places on the bench this year, everybody is involved."