Dan Harding is today celebrating an encouraging start to his England career and the chance of being involved in the European Championship qualifying campaign for the under- 21s.

The Albion defender made his debut for Peter Taylor's team in last night's 3-1 friendly victory against Ukraine at Middlesbrough's Riverside Stadium.

Former Seagulls manager Taylor brought Harding on at leftback for the second half in place of Matt Richards of Ipswich.

The 20-year-old responded with a composed performance, combining intelligent use of the ball with sound defending.

Taylor said: "I was pleased with Dan. He has come on for 45 minutes and played very sensibly. He did not get beaten once."

A first half double from striker Carlton Cole, on loan to Aston Villa from Chelsea, ensured Hull boss Taylor made a winning start to his second stint in charge of the under- 21s.

Ukraine pulled a goal back two minutes from time, but Ipswich substitute Darren Bent restored the two-goal cushion in stoppage time.

Harding could now stay in contention for the Euro qualifiers, beginning with a visit to Austria on September 3 and Poland four days later.

Taylor's youngsters host Wales at Blackburn on October 8 and go to Azerbaijan on October 12 in a group which also includes Germany.