Euro 2012 - England preview

England going in to a major tournament with little pressure has been unheard of since their World Cup win of 1966. The demands of the fans and the media is more intense than any other country in the world. However, this time it’s different, as the Three Lions enter Euro 2012 with a sense of optimism, rather than expectation.

England cruised through the qualifiers, finishing top of the group by six points, and going unbeaten. They did stutter at times in a very ordinary group, drawing home and away with Montenegro, they did what was need of them.

Key players

This tournament is seen as a transitional one for England, with a large proportion of the squad being very inexperienced. That in mind, the importance of captain Steven Gerrard can’t be overestimated. Gerrard’s coming in to the tournament on the back of a season of frustration with Liverpool, and will be hoping to prove he’s still one of the best midfielders in Europe.

Gerrard’s role is more important than ever, with Wayne Rooney being banned for the first two group games. Rooney’s world class, and his absence will hurt England. If they can navigate through the period of Rooney’s absence, his influence in the latter stages of the tournament could prove vital.

One of the surprise call-ups from new boss Roy Hodgson was the inclusion of Arsenal’s Alex Oxlade-Chamberlain. The 18-year-old was on the bench for the majority of the season for the Gunners, but there’s no doubt he possesses star quality. His potential is scary, and he’ll make a big impact if given the chance.

Manager

England were in meltdown in when Fabio Capello, the man who guided them through the qualifiers, resigned in February, following the FA’s decision to strip John Terry of the captaincy

The FA took their time before announcing Roy Hodgson as the new manager, just before the end of the season. Hodgson brings a wealth of experience, and guided a mediocre Switzerland side to third in the world in his previous stint in international football.

England squad

Goalkeepers: Joe Hart (Man City), Robert Green (West Ham), Jack Butland (Birmingham).

Defenders: Leighton Baines (Everton), Gary Cahill, Ashley Cole, John Terry (All Chelsea), Phil Jones (Man United), Joleon Lescott (Man City), Glen Johnson (Liverpool).

Midfielders: Gareth Barry, James Milner (Both Man City), Stewart Downing, Steven Gerrard (Both Liverpool), Alex Oxlade-Chamberlain, Theo Walcott (Both Arsenal), Frank Lampard (Chelsea), Scott Parker (Tottenham), Ashley Young (Man United).

Attackers: Andy Carroll (Liverpool), Wayne Rooney, Danny Welbeck (Both Man United), Jermain Defoe (Tottenham).

The notable absence from the squad is defender Rio Ferdinand, with Hodgson’s decision not to call him up an indication of Hodgson’s desire to look towards the future. Jack Wilshere continues to struggle with injuries, while Kyle Walker also misses out due to injury.

England fixtures - Group D

England look certain to progress from their group, having been drawn with tournament outsiders Sweden and the hosts Ukraine. France will provide a stern test, but anything less than qualification to the quarter finals must be regarded as failure.

France v England, June 11^th, Kick-off time 5:00pm, Donetsk

Sweden v England, June 15^th, Kick-off time 5:00pm, Kiev

England v Ukraine, June 19^th, Kick-off time 7:45 pm, Donetsk

Prediction

With the pressure slightly eased on the squad for the tournament, England could revel. They have top players all over their pitch, and if they play to their potential can beat any side.

To have a chance, England must top the group, with the runners-up likely to face Spain in the next round, then either Germany or Netherlands in the semi-final. Beating two of the tournament favourites in four days is a near impossible feat.

France will be to strong in the group stage though, and England can look forward to yet another quarter-final exit.