European Championships 2012 – England's Chances - By: Ethan Rowe

England safely qualified for the European Champions taking place in Ukraine and Poland next summer. Fabio Capello's men topped Group G after a draw away in Montenegro, a result which also guaranteed the small nation a spot within the playoffs. England were not always at their best in the qualifiers dropping points at home to Switzerland and Montenegro but to navigate what could have potential been a tricky group will be more than a relief to the Italian manger who plans to step down after next year's tournament.

After last year's disaster at the World Cup, in which England limped through the group stages only to be thrashed by a classy Germany side signalled the end of an era for the golden generation of England places. Fabio Capello has been quick to give his young lions the opportunity to stake their claim for a place in the squad for next summers show-piece event. The likes of Jack Wilshere, Phil Jones, Ashley Young, Gary Cahill and Danny Welbeck have come in a demonstrated they can cope with the demands of international football and with Wayne Rooney a player now so influential to the England set up they appear to have a squad with the right mixture of youth and experience.

However the sceptics out their will point to the all to familiar failings of this England team the draws against supposed weaker opposition in qualifying and the collapse away in Montenegro not to mention the temperament of star play Wayne Rooney who is set to miss at least England's opening game due to his moment of madness.

Even the most optimistic of England supporter won't believe the team has a chance of winning the tournament, however they see this as an opportunity to compete against the likes of Spain and Germany and gain some valuable experience for the next World Cup taking place in Brazil. It's difficult to see any side other than Spain taking home the title next year, however an experienced Germany side full of talent might have something to say after their impeccable qualifying campaign.

England though find their biggest problem is the fear of failure something that doesn't seem to effect their opponents so it'll be interesting to see if the new blood of the England side will be effected by something the golden generation struggled with so much. Capello himself finds it difficult to explain why a nation with such passion and great history has been so poor in recent tournaments despite the world class talent within the squads.

Expectations of success maybe low amongst the media and fans, however if Capello can navigate his side out of the group playing with some quality that has been evident at times during qualifying and avoid the likes of Spain, Germany and Holland in the quarter finals then a semi final spot is a real possibility anything further than this would be an incredible feat especially after the performances we saw in South Africa.

We think at worst England should expect a quarter final berth if the draw is kind and at very best a semi final appearance which would certainly make a nation so desperate for success on the international stage proud once again.

About the Author

Ethan Rowe works for Tips-free-bets.com a site that gives free bets and betting tips. Ethan gives daily football betting tips with 70% accuracy

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