Rooney targets winning start

Wayne Rooney says the opening match of Euro 2016 is absolutely crucial and a win for England against Russia on June 11 would provide a great platform for the rest of the tournament.

England enjoyed a perfect qualifying campaign for the major competition, clinching 10 wins from as many games, and there is a real optimism surrounding the current crop of players.

The Three Lions went so close to winning the European Championships back in 1996 when they were knocked out at the semi-final stage on penalties by Germany and many think the squad this year could match or even better that showing from 20 years ago.

Roy Hodgson has a plethora of attacking talent at his disposal, with Leicester City’s Jamie Vardy, Tottenham’s Harry Kane, Liverpool’s Daniel Sturridge, Manchester United’s Marcus Rashford and Rooney all raring to go.

Getting off to a good start could prove crucial for England and their campaign gets underway against Russia on Saturday at the Stade Velodrome in Marseille.

The skipper, who could be deployed in a deeper midfield role, is eyeing victory straight away and then using this to build the confidence for the remainder of the competition. “The first game is massive,” he said.

“It’s important that we get off to a winning start. Everyone says you don’t want to lose the first game but the difference it can make if you win the first game is huge. “It’s a big game for us now. We need to prepare well for that. The lads are buzzing and can’t wait for it.”

England, who are 9.50 to win a maiden Euro title, will also take on Wales and Slovakia in Group B and the Three Lions are the 1.80 favourites to top the pool.