READING FC star John Swift helped England keep their Under 21 European Championship hopes alive with a 2-1 victory over Slovakia.

The talented midfielder was named in the Young Lions starting XI for the must-win clash in Kielce yesterday.

And Aidy Boothroyd's side did not disappoint after coming from behind to clam three vital points.

Swift had been an unused substitute for the 0-0 draw with Sweden in their opening game.

But he was given the nod for this match in place of Jacob Murphy, earning his 41st cap for England youth sides.

They fell behind to a Slovakia side who had already defeated hosts Poland in their opening group fixture when Martin Chrien superbly headed home from an Albert Rusniak corner midway through the first half.

But England were back on level terms five minutes after the break when Swansea's Alfie Mawson converted from close range from a Murphy cross.

The Young Lions completed the turnaround a shade past the hour mark when a slick counter saw Nathan Redmond slam home the winner.

Swift, who was close to scoring himself with the games' first effort, was taken off 10 minutes from time and replaced with the fresh legs of Demarai Gray.

And though England were forced to weather some late Slovakia pressure, they held on for the victory.

The result means Swift and his Young Lions team-mates can still qualify for the semi finals as group winners if they can beat Poland in Kielce this Thursday evening.

Reading have already been involved in a remarkable summer for England after back-up keeper Luke Southwood helped land the Under 20 World Cup.