England are blessed to have so many attacking options - Chris Smalling

18 June 2016 17:54

Chris Smalling does not believe any team at Euro 2016 boasts a better selection of attacking players than England.

Roy Hodgson surprised many by naming a bold, forward-heavy 23-man squad for this summer's tournament in France.

Such strength in depth allowed him to call upon Jamie Vardy, Daniel Sturridge and Marcus Rashford from the bench against Wales on Thursday - options that were key in securing a memorable 2-1 comeback win in Lens.

Harry Kane, Raheem Sterling and Adam Lallana made way for those players on a day when all-time top scorer Wayne Rooney again played in midfield - options centre-back Smalling believes will be the envy of England's European Championship rivals.

"I think they've all got distinguished qualities," he told BBC Radio 5 live of the attackers.

"I think no other team can say that they're blessed with that many attacking talents to bring on and change games.

"I think they're going to be crucial as to how far we can get in this tournament."

As well as the glut of forward-minded options, Smalling believes the feel-good atmosphere within the squad can see England enjoy a memorable summer.

There is far less experience in the Three Lions squad than at the World Cup two years ago, but the defender believes that adds an extra dimension to the group.

"I think it's hard to sort of put a thumb on it," he said when asked what the differences are to Brazil.

"But I think you can tell the camaraderie and everything (is there), there's no fearful factor.

"The fact that we have so many young players sort of on this stage for the first time, I think everyone is just really attacking it and just enjoying it rather than being daunted by it."

Source: PA