England put down Euro 2012 marker with Spain victory

England’s smash and grab 1-0 win against Spain may not be enough to convince punters they are going to win Euro 2012, but it’s a performance that has given cause for cautious optimism.

Frank Lampard’s header from all of six inches was enough to give England the win and show they shouldn’t be completely written off in next summer’s European Championships.

Scott Parker was excellent in the middle of the park and he looks to have played himself into contention for a starting berth next summer, let alone a place in the squad.

Phil Jagielka and Joleon Lescott were solid if rather agricultural at the heart of the England defence and they have at least given Capello some more options following Rio Ferdinand’s loss of form and the latest controversy surrounding John Terry.

The performance wasn’t enough to see any change in the odds on England winning Euro 2012 though, and the Three Lions remain out at 12/1 to win the tournament for the first time.

There is plenty that can happen between now and next summer though and next up for England is a tricky game against Sweden this Tuesday.

It will be interesting to see how the Wayne Rooney-less England set up, with the onus on them to go out and attack a team they haven’t beaten since 1968.

Defending deep and hoping to nick a goal was all very well and good against Spain but they will surely have to adopt a more offensive style against the Scandinavians.

England are 8/11 favourites to win, while Sweden are out at 3/1 to maintain their staggering unbeaten record with a victory.