Euro 2012 team guide: Group D - England

Everything you need to know about Group D competitors England

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Written By: Radio staff; 12:04 AM, 01 June 2012

COACH: Roy Hodgson

WORLD RANKING: 7

QUALIFIED: Group G winners

BEST EURO FINISH: Semi-finals (1996)

FORMATION: 4-2-3-1

PLAYING STYLE: Counter-attack

STRONGEST LINE-UP:

Hart; Johnson, Cahill, Terry, Cole; Parker, Gerrard; Walcott, Young, Milner; Rooney.

STRENGTHS:

Potentially one of the best defensive teams in the tournament, with Joe Hart now among the world's best keepers, and perhaps three of the back four coming straight from Chelsea's rock-solid Champions League-winning side.

WEAKNESSES:

Injuries have left them appallingly light in midfield, and the attack relies too heavily on Wayne Rooney - who can't play in the first two games.

STAR PLAYER:

Wayne Rooney
Position: Striker
Age: 26
Club: Man United
Even though he’ll miss the first two games England need his goals and creativity to progress to the latter stages.

THE CAPTAIN:

S

teven Gerrard

Roy Hodgson’s first decision was to hand the armband to his ex-Liverpool captain. Stevie G’s power, passing and passion are vital to England’s chances.

ENGLAND FACTS:

Capital: London
Population: 52.2 million
Official language: English
Best ever player: Bobby Moore

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