Preview: England vs. France

Monday sees one of the most anticipated games of the European Championship so far as England take on France in Group D at Donetsk's Donbass Arena.

Much has been said about the lack of expectation surrounding the Three Lions this summer, but they will want to avoid defeat in their opening match of the tournament.

Meanwhile, Les Bleus will be going into the match with plenty of confidence after notching up five wins out of their last six games.

England are without striker Wayne Rooney through suspension for the first two group games, so Danny Welbeck is likely to be the lone attacker with Manchester United teammate Ashley Young just behind.

Elsewhere, Joleon Lescott is expected to partner John Terry in the centre of defence following Gary Cahill's tournament-ending jaw injury and Rio Ferdinand's high-profile absence.

French coach Laurent Blanc is unlikely to risk injured midfielder Yann M'Vila for the clash, so Alou Diarra could come into the centre of the park.

Philippe Mexes, who is considered to be a weak link at the heart of the defence, should start ahead of Laurent Koscielny and Karim Benzema may cause England problems in attack.

Current form:

England: DWWLWW France: WDWWWW

Possible lineups:

England: Hart; Johnson, Terry, Lescott, Cole; Milner, Gerrard, Parker, Downing; Young; Welbeck

France: Lloris; Debuchy, Rami, Mexes, Evra; Cabaye, Diarra, Nasri, Malouda, Ribery; Benzema

Sports Mole says: 2-2