Cahill excited ahead of Euro 2016

England centre-back Gary Cahill insists he is relishing the upcoming European Championships and has backed the young members of the squad to flourish this summer.

The Three Lions, 9.00 to win the tournament, will take on Wales, Slovakia and Russia in Group B after breezing through their qualifying campaign under boss Roy Hodgson.

The former Liverpool coach has continued to call up players in form, with the likes of Marcus Rashford, Dele Alli, Harry Kane and Jamie Vardy all expected to impress in the coming weeks.

In recent tournaments, previous managers have used experience over youth but Cahill believes the current squad has plenty of potential.

The Chelsea star will be one of the most experienced members of the squad in France and he insists the blend of youth and experience could take the team all the way.

He told reporters: “I think the mixture that we have in the squad is very good. “The young lads that have been playing have made a huge impact in the Premier League this season. They’re playing without fear, and playing very naturally.”

“Of course we have a few of the older lads in here, too,” he said. “The likes of myself, Joe Hart, [James] Milner, and Wayne [Rooney] obviously stands out as well – so we have that ‘ear’ to give to the younger lads, we can pass on our advice and experience if they need it. “I’m very excited.

I know we’ve got some great players here, and from an England player and an England fan’s point of view, it’s a very good, exciting side.”