Jarrad Branthwaite captains England U21s v Northern Ireland

The Cumbrian defender led the Young Lions to a 3-0 victory over Northern Ireland at Goodison Park on Tuesday night.

Head coach Lee Carsley gave Branthwaite, from Wigton, the armband for the Euro qualifier at the home ground of his club Everton.

The ex-Carlisle United defender turned in a solid defensive display to cap his memorable night with a win.

“It was definitely a proud moment,” said Branthwaite.

“To captain England wherever it’s at is a privilege for me.

Jarrad Branthwaite, left, pictured after the game (Image: PA)

"It was a proud moment for me and my family, and especially being at home at Goodison. It made it even more special, so it was a really good night and a great result."

Branthwaite, speaking to Everton's website, added about England's victory: “I think it was a good performance.

"It shows the quality of the team to make the game look so easy because we dominated the ball, created chances, and scored goals.”

Cumbrians James Trafford, back left, and Jarrad Branthwaite, back second left, in the U21 line-up at Goodison Park (Image: PA)

Branthwaite was joined in the side by fellow Cumbrian James Trafford, the Burnley goalkeeper from Greysouthen, who kept a second straight clean sheet in England's comfortable victory.

Both Cumbrians played the full game as goals from Harvey Elliott (two) and Tyler Morton gave England a second consecutive 3-0 victory, following Saturday's win in Serbia.

Liam Delap, the son of former Carlisle star Rory, came on as a substitute at Goodison Park.

England, the European champions, are second in their qualifying group after five games.

Branthwaite has become a regular starter for the Under-21s after his impressive form in the Premier League for Everton this season, with some observers tipping him for a future call-up to Gareth Southgate's senior side.

Trafford has long been established as the U21s' first-choice goalkeeper.