Stuart Pearce challenged his England U21 squad to maintain their high-level performances for both club and country following a comfortable European Championship qualifier win over Iceland.

The Young Lions were put on course for a fourth straight victory to take command of Group 8 with goals in each half by Watford striker Marvin Sordell and Liverpool defender Martin Kelly.

A late header from West Brom’s Craig Dawson and a brace from substitute Gary Gardner, the Aston Villa youngster, made the final score more emphatic.

Pearce’s squad are now five points clear of the chasing pack and will travel to Belgium ahead of Monday’s clash in confident mood of another positive result to stay on course for a shot at the finals in Israel.

“There were one or two fresh faces who came into the squad and they have done themselves no harm,” said Pearce.

“They are all just waiting for game time now, whether it is at their clubs in the reserves or on-loan, or with us at the U21s.”

Many of Pearce’s former charges are now involved with Fabio Capello’s senior group, Everton midfielder Jack Rodwell and Chelsea forward Daniel Sturridge the latest to make the step up.

The former England captain is proud to see the system working so well.

“Those guys, like Phil Jones and Kyle Walker, have gone through to the seniors on merit,” he said.

“They are playing well for their clubs and are great talents, they deserve their chance.

“I have to make sure I am always here and that if they are not playing for the seniors, they come and play U21 football.

“If they are good enough to stay there, then brilliant, I will be the first one pushing them on the England manager, but it is important we are always there to support these guys. That is my job.”