Gosport talent nets in England under-21 rout

John Swift opened the scoring as England beat Bosnia & Herzegovina 5-0 in Under-21 European Championships qualifying.

The Gosport-born talent was also booked as the hosts ran out comfortable winners in the pool nine tie at the Bescot Stadium this afternoon.

John Swift, back row, third left, from Gosportplaceholder image
John Swift, back row, third left, from Gosport

Chelsea’s Tammy Abraham scored twice, while Spurs’ Josh Onomah and Duncan Watmore, of Sunderland, were also on the mark.

Swift, who made one substitute appearance for Chelsea’s first team after nine years in their academy ranks, signed a three-year deal with Reading this summer.

Gosport-born John Swift, left, celebrates Duncan Watmore's goalplaceholder image
Gosport-born John Swift, left, celebrates Duncan Watmore's goal

The 21-year-old has since played 12 times for the Championship outfit, scoring four goals.

This afternoon’s strike was his second for England, who he has represented at every age group since under-16.

Swift has also spent time on loan at Brentford, Swindon Town and Rotherham during the past two seasons.

He was released by Pompey before his teenage years.

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