Stones – England can win Euros

England defender John Stones believes his side can challenge for glory at this summer’s European Championships.

Stones was included in Roy Hodgson’s 23-man squad for the finals on Tuesday and the Everton star is one of only three specialist centre-backs to be included in the party.

The 22-year-old will be playing at his first major international tournament in France, but he is convinced the squad can mount a serious challenge for glory this summer, as they bid to claim their first European Championship crown.

“It’s tough because you don’t want to put pressure on it, but I’d like to think we’re among the contenders,” he told Everton’s official website: “I’ve been saying we’re quietly confident to people, but obviously all the big teams will feel the same.”

The Three Lions were the only side to go through qualifying with a 100 percent record, while they have also achieved impressive friendly victories against France and Germany since booking their place at the finals.

Stones believes those victories have given England renewed confidence ahead of the Euros, particularly if they come up against the hosts or the world champions once again during the competition.

He added: “We’ve beaten France and Germany since we qualified, which is a big boost and something that will hopefully stand us in good stead if we come up against them at any point.”

Hodgson’s men have been handed a testing draw at the finals, as they will take on Russia, Wales and Slovakia in Group B. The Three Lions are available at 1.73 to finish top of the group, while they are on offer at 1.10 to qualify for the knockout stages.