EURO 2016 Q&A: Shura says England can reach the semi-finals, but wishes David Beckham was still playing!

The 2016 European Championships’ group stages are almost already over, with the tantalising tournament leaving us glued to our TV screens ever since hosts France defeated Romania 2-1 in Paris back on June 10.

But with home nation trio; England, Wales and Northern Ireland all recording wins in their respective groups, plus neighbours the Republic of Ireland in action this summer too, Shoot decided to get some tournament tips and predictions from famous musicians.

Today’s feature is from Shura; who is set to release her debut album ‘Nothing’s Real’ on July 8, and they had high hopes for Three Lions striker Jamie Vardy across the English Channel this summer…

How far do you think England can go at EURO 2016?

“If you look at our squad, there’s no reason for us not to go far. That being said, England are one of the few international teams with a self destruct button. I hope we get as far as the semi finals. That would be awesome!”

Which English player are you most excited to see at this summer’s tournament?

“I’m excited to see if [Jamie] Vardy can turn an excellent season for Leicester City into an excellent tournament for England. I’m also excited to see [Marcus] Rashford play.”

How much of an impact do you think the likes of Harry Kane, Vardy and Dele Alli can have for the Three Lions given their impressive Premier League campaigns?

“I think they can have a huge impact. I think playing for your country helps reinvigorate any legs that might be a bit tired from the Premier League season.”

Should Wayne Rooney start for England?

“I think that as Rooney’s role changes for England, it’s even more important for him to start on the pitch.

“His presence on the field is an inspiration to younger plays and his distribution of the ball is incredibly important. He reminds me a lot of Paul Scholes – but his tackling is significantly better!”

Ex-England captain Beckham made the last of his 115 international appearances back in October 2009 – Photo: Matt Roberts/Offside.

Which player, who missed out on the 23-man squad, would you like to have been included in England’s EURO 2016 squad this summer?

“DAVID BECKHAM! Haha. I mean I know he’s retired, but can we just wheel him on for free kicks?

“To be honest, I’m super pleased with Hodgson’s choices. I’m really glad Rashford made the squad.”

Do any of the other home nations [Wales, Republic of Ireland and Northern Ireland] have a hope of progressing to the latter stages?

“I think Wales definitely have a chance of progressing. Gareth Bale is an absolute machine.”

Who do you think will win the Euros?

“ENGLAND! Ha. I wish. I think Germany will win it. France have a decent chance with every game they play essentially being a home match, but I still think Germany are just too strong.”

Shura believes Arsenal ace Ozil will shine for world champions Germany at EURO 2016 this summer – Photo: Charlotte Wilson / Offside.

Who are you expecting to be the player of the tournament?

“I’m expecting [Toni] Kroos and [Mesut] Ozil to have good tournaments for Germany.”

Which player do you think could emerge as a young star?

“I’d love for Rashford to do something special with England. In the way the [Michael] Owen and Rooney did back when they first started playing internationally.”

Who do you think will be the top scorer at the Euros?

“If France go far, I think someone like [Paul] Pogba or [Dimitri] Payet could. Someone like Kroos for Germany.

“It’s so hard to guess because it’s either someone completely unexpected or [Cristiano] Ronaldo… But it doesn’t look like its gonna happen for Ronaldo this tournament!”

Details:

Website: weareshura.com
Twitter: @weareshura
Facebook: facebook.com/shuramusic

Listen to Shura’s latest single, ‘What’s It Gonna Be?’…