DAVID WHEATER will be given the captain's armband this evening as England U21s take on Wales at the Racecourse Ground.

The Boro Young Player of the Year has had a magnificent rookie season and is also included in Fabio Capello's senior England squad for the forthcoming internationals against USA and Trinidad.

"To be named captain is a fantastic honour," said the 21-year-old.

"I didn't expect to be at Boro this season. I thought I may have been going out on loan this season but the manager put me in and it's just gone on from there.

"I'm looking forward to meeting John Terry and Rio Ferdinand when I link up with the full squad but I won't be taking my autograph book!"

The game can be seen on Sky Sports 2, kick-off 7.30pm.