Can England win this summer’s European Championship?

“Wembley Stadium” (CC BY-SA 2.0) by  andrew_j_w 

This summer, Roy Hodgson’s England will once again carry the weight of expectation from an entire nation as they look to win the European Championship for the first time. Since winning the World Cup in 1966, England have failed to make an impact in major tournaments but this could finally be the year that England step up and challenge for the crown.

Ultimately, England’s chances will be determined by Hodgson’s squad selection. If the former Fulham and Liverpool boss picks players on merit and not their name, then England have an opportunity to make history. However, if too many ‘big-name’ stars make the squad, the Three Lions are in danger of crashing out at the group stages – just as they did in the 2014 World Cup in Brazil.

Danny Drinkwater and Danny Rose were both included in the squad to face Germany and Hodgson must take both of these players to Euro 2016. Although they have limited experience at international level, they are in great form for their respective clubs and could help England to overcome their major tournament demons – especially as both players have nothing to lose and are full of confidence right now.

On the other hand, the likes of Manchester United’s Michael Carrick shouldn’t make the squad. The 34-year-old is in his twilight years and has failed to inspire confidence for his club side this season. Carrick has been a loyal servant to both United and England but retirement is on the horizon – especially as he is out of contract this summer and the Red Devils are yet to offer him an extension.

With less than three months until the competition gets under way, England are priced at 11/1 in the Euro 2016 betting to win the tournament. If they are to achieve this goal, the likes of Harry Kane, Jamie Vardy and Daniel Sturridge will all need to be at their very best. While Sturridge has been injured for a large portion of the season, he’s starting to find his feet under Jurgen Klopp and could make the England squad if he stays fit.

Meanwhile, Kane and Vardy are leading the way at the top of the Premier League goalscoring charts. It’s quite refreshing to see two Englishmen battling it out against one another but it also gives Hodgson a dilemma. Who should he go with in the starting line-up? Both players are completely different but this could give England an advantage as they might be able to exploit opposing defences in various ways.

England have plenty of potential but can they go all the way and win at Euro 2016? Many have their doubts. Hodgson’s selection will determine the mood and if he takes risks and opts for in-form, younger players then England truly have a shot at European glory. If he plays it safe and takes the same old, experienced heads that went to Brazil, England will be embarrassed on the big stage yet again. It’s as simple as that.