Their 15-match unbeaten run might have been brought to a crashing halt by Spain, but Chelsea FC midfielder Cesc Fabregas believes England are one of the best counter attacking sides in Europe, and could thus win EURO 2016
England lost 2-0 to Spain in their international friendly on Friday night, bringing to an end the aura around manager Roy Hodgson’s side that had gone 15 matches without losing. However, Fabregas believes that it was a one-off match, and that Hodgson’s side is indeed one of the favourites to win the Euro 2016.
a I think we played in a very difficult game against England. It was difficult as The Three Lions came with a lot of confidence as they had won their ten qualifiers,” Fabregas was quoted saying in the Daily Mirror. a But 100 per cent, a counter attacking team can win the Euros. Italy have done it many times, even Germany, but you have to be a special team.”
a I think they will compete very well in the Euros, that is for sure,” continued the former FC Barcelona player. “If you ask me now, right now, if they are one of the favourites, I would say yes but of course, they will need to score the chances they create because counter attacking, they are one of the best sides.”
Young England side going through transition
Fabregas also explained why the England side’s performances may seem a little inconsistent at the moment. He believes that after losing the older generation of players, the team is going through a transition, and needs time to develop.
a They are a young team, same as us, changing a little bit as the Gerrards and Lampards have gone. The same for us with Xavi, Alonso and David Villa,” said the 28-year-old. “When they get chances with Sterling, Kane and Rooney, Lallana, they have good players but they have to take their chances.a
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England face France next in an emotional friendly at the Wembley Stadium on Tuesday, in what will be a stern test against a well-drilled Le Bleus side. France beat World Champions Germany 2-0 at the Stade de France in their last match, and it would be interesting to see how The Three Lions fare against them.