CUP OF MCATEE

James has got no regrets over opting to do national service

- by BOBBY MANZI

JAMES McATEE could have been baking in the Florida sunshine with his Manchester City team-mates.

His next assignment could have been taking on Al-Hilal in the last 16 of the Club World Cup.

But the rising star was given the choice by Pep Guardiola of whether to opt for FIFA’s stateside money-spinner or represent his country’s bid to retain their European Under-21 Championship crown.

Given he will lead his side out at the National Stadium in Bratislava tonight, as Lee Carsley’s Young Lions face Germany in the final, it is little wonder the City midfielder has no regrets about the choice he made.

“It’s a tough one to answer but I don’t regret my decision at all. I’m happy I’m here and my focus is now tomorrow, it’s not on the Club World Cup,” said the England skipper.

“This would be a special occasion for me. I'm so excited to play tomorrow. It'll be a big achievement for me and my family.”

There is more behind his decision than just national pride, however.