This article is part of the Guardian’s Euro 2020 Experts’ Network, a cooperation between some of the best media organisations from the 24 countries who qualified. Although the hype around England has ended up looking ridiculous in previous years, the optimism feels justified this time. Do not expect to see England line up with Declan Rice holding everything together on his own in defensive midfield. “Oh God, not another penalty shootout” – As at the World Cup, England have won one of four shootouts at European Championships. Pandemic hero/villainMany footballers have done admirable work in their communities, but there are exceptions and many of them seem to play for England.

Source: The Guardian June 06, 2021 22:52 UTC