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Arsenal boss Wenger backs Croatia as Euro2016 surprise package

Arsene Wenger believes Croatia can be the biggest surprise at this summer's European Championships.

The Arsenal manager has identified Ante Cacic's side as a potential wildcard at Euro2016, which kicks off in France this weekend, while also suggesting that the likes of Turkey, Slovakia and the Czech Republic can also have strong tournaments.

"The surprise package could be Turkey, who only just qualified, but in the end could have an impact," he told Arsenal Player.

"Then you have Slovakia and the Czech Republic, who could be a surprise too, you never know.

"But one team, above all - who nobody speaks about - who has the internal quality to be a major favourite, is Croatia. When you look at the players they have - Kovacic, Rakitic, Modric, Lovren (not actually playing), Vrsaljko, Srna, and I forget so many - but you think 'oh'.

"When you look at the names you think there is something there, so why should they not be favourite? For me, they could be the surprise package."

Croatia are drawn in Group D alongside reigning European champions Spain, Turkey and the Czechs.

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Andrew Slevison
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