Zidane's magic in 2004, losing to Jack Charlton's Ireland in 1988 and Switzerland puncturing the feel-good factor in '96... England are notoriously slow starters at the Euros and have NEVER won their opener - so, will it be different against Croatia?

By any measure, it's been a less-than-ideal build up to Euro 2020 for England.

Injuries and fitness concerns to key players, the cohort from Chelsea and Manchester City late because of a short turnaround after the Champions League final and some pretty uninspiring displays in the warm-up friendlies.

But if England do lack momentum heading into Sunday's opener against Croatia, at least they won't be burdened by a history of starting European Championships strongly.

It's long been a tale of woe for England in their opening match at the European Championship - pictured is David Beckham as France come from 1-0 down to win 2-1 in injury time in 2004

There was similar agony for Gary Lineker as England lost 1-0 to the Republic of Ireland in 1988

Gareth Southgate will be looking for better when England open Euro 2020 against Croatia

Quite the opposite.