Declan Rice says England have “no excuses” not to win Euro 2024.
England are the bookies’ favourites to lift their first major trophy since 1966 this summer, with Gareth Southgate’s 26-man squad packed full of talent.
They fell agonisingly short in the final of the last European Championship in 2021, an experience Rice believes has made them stronger as they bid to go one better in Germany.
Ahead of their tournament opener against Serbia on Sunday, the Arsenal star told The Standard: “I think the team has got more experience.
“The squad level is stronger. We know what we’ve got to do to win. We’ve got no excuses.”
Staying focused 👊#EURO2024 pic.twitter.com/qYaKgy2yf4
— England (@England) June 12, 2024
‘Euros can heal the pain’
Speaking about their penalty defeat at Wembley three years ago, the 25-year-old added: “The Euros are the last thing now that can really help me get over the hurt.
“Seeing Italy lift that cup in front of us last time: that feeling’s still in our belly. We want to get that now.”
England lost 1-0 to Iceland in their final warm-up game at Wembley last Friday, with the out-of-sorts display slightly dampening spirits ahead of the tournament.
But Rice was quick to quash any notions of the Three Lions being unprepared for the tournament.
He said: “Putting on that shirt before a major tournament again: that is such a good feeling. I feel like we’re ready… I’m ready.”
