International Updates

The UEFA U21 Championships started today, and Arsenal has a minimal presence at the tournament.

Justin Hoyte is expected to take the right back spot as England begin the tournament tomorrow against the Czech Republic in Arnhem. Theo Walcott is not involved, as he is taking a deserved rest over the summer after shoulder surgery.

Meanwhile, one time Gunner Michal Papadopulos is on the Czech roster. Michal spent the 2003-2004 season on loan with Arsenal from Banik Ostrava, but never really impressed and saw limited action in two League Cup matches. He's now on the books at Bayer Leverkusen, and is struggling to crack the starting 11 there as well.

Also this summer, Canada plays host to the U20 World Cup, with matches right across the country. Not all nations have announced their squads yet, and it doesn't appear that many Arsenal youth will be involved. Players will be covered here after all rosters are released.

The busy international schedule also sees the Confederations Cup in Venezuela later this month. Gilberto Silva and departing striker/midfielder Julio Baptista were named in Brazil's preliminary roster on May 28. Former young Gunner Frankie Simek, now of Sheffield Wednesday, received his first call up for the United States for the tournament. Final rosters will be out soon.

Finally, the U17 World Cup also happens this August in South Korea. Again, it's too early for final rosters. But with nations like England, France, and Spain involved, we may see a few youngsters involved.

More later.