WHILE Sven Goran Eriksson's troops try to come to terms with their shattering defeat to the French, Swindon teenager Tom Cole has every sympathy after suffering his own heartbreak with an England side.

Cole, a defender, was part of the England Colleges side that were beaten on penalties by Italy in the final of the Amateur European Youth Championship.

The showpiece took place at the imposing Arechi Stadium a former top flight ground in Italy and despite the disappointment of defeat, Cole's spirits were not dampened.

"It was a shame to lose that way in the final but just playing in Italy was a fantastic experience," he said.

"The stadium where we played the final was a Serie A ground not that long ago and to play on the same pitch that Paulo Maldini has played on was amazing."

A final appearance was a bonus in itself after a shaky start in the tournament.

England drew their opening game 1-1 with holders Slovenia, with Cole setting up a late equaliser.

A 0-0 draw with Romania left England needing to beat Greece by two goals and rely on Romania and Slovenia drawing in the final group game.

Despite having a man sent off, England managed to win 3-0 and, with the other match finishing level, Cole and co went through to the final as group winners.

There they met hosts Italy and the two sides played out a 1-1 draw.

They could not be separated after 30 additional minutes, forcing a shootout.

Cole was listed as the sixth taker but he wasn't called upon as England missed two of their first three spot kicks to lose 4-1 on penalties.

The tour is likely to be Cole's final tournament with the college team as the teenager is about to finish his further education.

The Cirencester College student, who has also toured the United States with the national team this year, has risen through the ranks of the Ciren academy.

Having broken into the Cirencester Town first team at the end of last season he will be looking to become a regular fixture in the Centurions' backline next term.