Skipper backing for Lita

England Under-21 skipper Nigel Reo-Coker has backed Leroy Lita to recover from his penalty disappointment in their opening game of the European Championships in Holland.

Lita dragged his spot-kick wide with three minutes left against the Czech Republic, meaning Stuart Pearce's youngsters had to settle for a goalless draw at Arnhem's Gelredome.

"I think Leroy will be fine, he's a great player and it happens," Reo-Coker said.

"Everyone in the team believed he would score and had no objections to him taking it. It's a well-earned point against very good opposition."

The Czechs could have snatched victory and goalkeeper Scott Carson's reflexes prevented Jan Kysela from opening the scoring in the first half.

The Liverpool man then tipped Daniel Pudil's free-kick on to the post in the second half, while Martin Fillo ran through and blazed over the crossbar.

England's best chances were missed by David Nugent and Kieran Richardson, with the Manchester United winger heading straight down the tunnel for treatment after being substituted. He would have taken the penalty if he was still on the pitch.

Pearce said: "We had opportunities before the penalty to seal the game, so we're disappointed, we can play a lot better than that.

"For 90 minutes the game was there to be won but we weren't good enough on the day. It might be a bit tougher in the next game and we have to make sure we play better."

England play next on Thursday against Italy, who lost against Serbia in the other Group B game on Monday.