England has its best team in the last 20 years, says Matic

Serbia international Nemanja Matic is impressed by Gareth Southgate's England, which was the semifinalist at the 2018 World Cup.

Published : Dec 24, 2019 21:40 IST

Nemanja Matic in action for Serbia at the 2018 World Cup.
Nemanja Matic in action for Serbia at the 2018 World Cup.
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Nemanja Matic in action for Serbia at the 2018 World Cup.

Nemanja Matic admits it is tough to pick a favourite for Euro 2020 but believes England has "its best team in the last 20 years" ahead of the tournament.

Next year's finals will see 24 nations involved, with the final four spots to be decided by play-offs in March.

Reigning champion Portugal will be aiming to defend its title, while France -- beaten on home soil in the final in 2016 -- is out to follow up its success at the World Cup last year.

Matic hopes to help Serbia to glory, though he will not be surprised if two of the leading contenders are left fighting it out for the trophy at Wembley Stadium on July 12.

As for England, which would have home advantage should it progress to the semifinals and final, the Manchester United midfielder is impressed by the talent available to Gareth Southgate, who steered the Three Lions to the last four in Russia.

"It's hard to say who my favourite is [for Euro 2020]," Matic told Omnisport .

“My favourite is my country, but I think Germany are always dangerous. Croatia have a good team, they played in the final of the World Cup.

“Spain are an amazing team, France too. It's hard to say who the favourite is.

“With England, I think it's time to make something. We'll see if they're ready. I think England now has their best team in the last 20 years, maybe I'm not right, but that's my opinion.

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