COACH David Platt seems certain to hand ex-Town striker Jonathan Stead a first England Under 21 cap against Holland tonight.

Stead - one of 15 uncapped players in the 22-man squad - looks set to start in front of a sell-out crowd at Hull's KC Stadium a fortnight after leaving Town for Premiership Blackburn.

Platt is keen to explore all his options as he prepares for the European Championship qualifying campaign later this year and commented:

"I've been aware of Jonathan throughout this season, because he has been scoring goals.

"He's in mainly because of his performance against Newcastle.

"He surprised me, having several efforts on goal, and he looked as though he could play at that level.

"His technique is pretty good - and although he needs to strengthen up, that does not mean he is weak.

"But it's like we have unearthed a player because he has not been in the younger age groups, which is a real bonus for us."

Stead, a £1.25m arrival at Ewood, has netted twice in as many games and thanks the men he has displaced, Dwight Yorke and Andy Cole, for their help.

"Moving to Blackburn was a bit overwhelming at first, but after the first two or three days of training I settled in well," said Stead.

"Andy and Dwight have taken me under their wing. If I've got any questions I feel free to go and speak to them about anything.

"They're fantastic players who have been around and done the business, so they are definitely the sort of players I can work off and learn from.

"They've been very welcoming and made it easy for me to settle in. I'm enjoying it and I think it's been a good move for me.

"To now represent my country is top of my list. I can't believe the last two weeks.

"It's been a whirlwind - like I'm living a schoolboy dream.

"Two weeks ago, I never thought I'd be signing for a Premier League club and then heading into an England set-up. Now I'm just really excited about my prospects."