Russia midfielder Pavel Mamaev has admitted that England will pose a difficult test for his side in their Euro 2016 opener on Saturday.

Leonid Slutsky's side will open their campaign against the Three Lions in Marseille this weekend looking to gain an early advantage in Group B.

Mamaev acknowledged that England boast "world-class players", but believes that Russia's attacking strength could cause problems for Roy Hodgson's side.

"I think England are a strong team. Of course, they have world-class players but first and foremost they are a big team in Europe because they are a team, not individuals," he told reporters.

"But I believe that we have a very strong attacking team, all the players are in their prime and we are ready to take the fight to the English defence."

Russia will also take on Slovakia and Wales in the group stages in France.

Written by
Barney Corkhill