As featured on NewsNow: Football news

Man Utd hero Sheringham: England have talent to win Euros

Former Manchester United and Tottenham star Teddy Sheringham believes England have the talent to win the Euros.

Sheringham looked at the opposition in England's group and believes Capello's men can progress.

"There really aren't any easy matches at this stage," he told the Sunday Mirror. "Ukraine so not have a high ranking but they will have home advantage and I know from our experiences in 1996 how much of a help that can be.

"Sweden? I played against a Sweden team in the World Cup in Japan and they will be strong and they will be organized. Always hard to beat because the also seem to have a player who can produce the unpredictable.

"Over the years they have had the likes of Anders Limpar, Freddie Ljungberg and, these days, they have Zlatan Ibrahimovic. He can be a match winner on his day.

"France - they always have talent in players like Samir Nasri. But really, so much depends, for me, on England's game plan. If we do not work on holding the ball up and using it in central midfield in particular then we could easily struggle.

"There is so much to admire about England players. I love the way we defend for our lives, the effort we put in and the selfless running up front. But unless we work on keeping possession then I am fearful for us.

"You don't keep the ball and you have to hit it long. You hit it long and the ball keeps coming back - and it is impossible to keep a team put for 90 minutes. That is why central midfield is so important.

"That is why it is vital that Jack Wilshere, Scott Parker and Steven Gerrard are fit. I know that Wilshere and Gerrard have had their injury problems this season but hopefully they will be fit for the finals. Fit - and fresh. It is no consolation to the fans of Arsenal and Liverpool but it could really work in England's favour if they only play half of the season.

"Parker does a tremendous job and I wouldn't rule Michael Carrick out of a place either. He is fantastic in that role of collecting the ball from the back and looking comfortable in possession. That is what he has done for so many years at Manchester United. They play a game where possession of the ball is paramount - and that is what England HAVE to do in the finals if they are to have any chance.

"As for Wayne Rooney - suspension or not - you must take him. He is one who can keep the ball and Bobby Zamora is a candidate. I worked with him at West Ham and he can be a real asset and keep the ball when it is played up to him."

Video of the day:

About the author

Tribal Football Staff

×

Subscribe and go ad-free

For only $10 a year

  1. Go Ad-Free
  2. Faster site experience
  3. Support great writing
  4. Subscribe now
Launch Offer: 2 months free
×

Subscribe and go ad-free

For only $10 a year

Subscribe now
Launch Offer: 2 months free