Drakes-Thomas, has been playing up an age group with the Under-18s this season - making his debut as a substitute against Liverpool in October 2024.
His first start came in the 4-2 victory over Chelsea in December 2024, where he scored the fourth goal to seal the comeback, and he has since gone to make 10 appearances in total so far in 24/25. Drakes-Thomas has also registered three assists, operating as part of the attacking trio and as a wing-back.
The youngster headed to Alicante, Spain, for the UEFA U16 Development Tournament. UEFA launched its Development Tournaments in 2012 as a way of offering elite youth players the opportunity to enjoy intense international matches and learn about overseas travel as part of a squad.
England U16s faced Colombia, Denmark and France while they were in the south east of Spain, and Drakes-Thomas featured in each game.
He made his first appearance for the Three Lions off the bench against Colombia, coming on for the final 25 minutes.
Drakes-Thomas then started the following game against Denmark, helping the side to a 7-3 victory with two assists to his name.
His final outing saw him earn more game time off the bench in a narrow defeat to France.
England U16s - Joel Drakes-Thomas
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Friday, 28th February: Colombia 0-4 England (Drakes-Thomas came on in the 65th minute)
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Sunday, 2nd March: England 7-3 Denmark (Drakes-Thomas started and played 70 minutes, assisting two goals)
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Wednesday, 5th March: England 1-2 France (Drakes-Thomas came on in the 65th minute)