The England football squad today flew to Portugal for the beginning of the Euro 2004 Championship. The team completed their preparations on home soil with two games in the Summer Tournament at the City of Manchester Stadium. The first game against Japan finished in a 1-1 draw, Michael Owen netting for the home team. This was followed by a 6-1 drubbing of Iceland, with Rooney (2), Vassell (2), Lampard and Bridge all getting on the scoresheet.

England go to Portugal as one of the favourites to lift the European Championship trophy. The team begin their campaign with a tough assignment against current holders France in Lisbon on 13th June. - 7 June 2004