Former India captain Sunil Chhetri has a rather unique take on who may win the Euro 2024, beginning on Friday. Chhetri, who recently hung up his boots, is putting his money on England.

With 24 countries fighting for honours, Chhetri picked England during a virtual interaction on Tuesday. If his prediction comes true, it will be the first time they will win the Euro.

“The usual suspects are Germany, Spain and Italy. France have also been outstanding. But if I have to pick one I would put my neck on the line and say England. Even if they don’t win, they are my favourites. They are in the right spot now with all their experience and the young guns becoming world beaters. So they are my favourites,” Chhetri said.

England came agonizingly close last time as they faltered against Italy in the penalty-shootout in the Euro 2020 final at Wembley.

Questions have been raised about manager Gareth Southgate’s chosen squad for the tournament, which has seen big names like Marcus Rashford, Jack Grealish, and James Maddison miss out.

“Despite the exclusions, no one can question the amount of talent and potential the squad has with the likes of Jude Bellingham, Phil Foden and Bukayo Saka forming a young core of the squad led by England’s all-time leading scorer, Harry Kane,” added the 39-year-old, who is an expert panelist on Sony Sports Network’s Football Extraaa for Euro 2024.

Croatia’s star Luca Modric had hailed Chhetri as a “legend” after the Indian retired. Ahead of Euro 2024, which may well be Modric’s last, Chhetri said: “I am his fan right from his Tottenham days. What he has done for Croatia is amazing.

“I know fans around the world, and I am one, will look forward to seeing him play this time which may be his last Euro.”

Chhetri also had high praise for Rolando. “I hope Ronaldo starts in as many games as possible... Portugal want Ronaldo for his goals. They know given half a chance he can convert. They know he is lethal.”