Pirlo Fires Warning To England - Why My Money Is Going On The Three Lions

Andrea Pirlo is one of the most admired footballers on the European stage as a result of his relaxed style of play and his cool, composed persona. The 35-year-old seems to be ripening with age and it will be up to England to stop him from performing on the big stage. Pirlo has sent a warning to Roy Hodgson's men, though, saying  Italy know how to beat the Three Lions.

I am convinced that England will win the game, though.

Italy are a team that are very flexible in their formation but press aggressively whenever they can. I think the way Italy get in the face of opponents will allow Steven Gerrard to open up gaps and expose the space in behind for England's forwards.

I also think that their full-backs could cost them dearly. Mattia De Sciglio on the left of defence is the main weak link and if Hodgson sticks Raheem Sterling up against him from the off I think we will get some success.

If the England players can rub Mario Balotelli up the wrong way as well, that would take their biggest goal threat out of the team. Combine that with a quick pressing on Pirlo and I would suggest the game is ours.

Come on England.