As what is being heralded as the best Premier League season ever draws to a close, we look forward to a scintillating summer of football ahead of us in the form of the European Championships 2012.
Defending champions Spain go into the finals as the favourites, but recent winners Greece (2004) and France (2000) will be looking to give Vicente Del Bosque's team a run for their money. After their blistering performance in the World Cup, Germany also looks like strong contenders. However, England, Italy, the Netherlands and Portugal will all think they are in with a chance of lifting the trophy.
Looking Forward to Euro 2012
The groups are incredibly even and the excitement looks set to go down to the very last group games to see who will get to the final stages. Group B is probably the toughest group with the twin threats of the Netherlands and Germany, particularly with the form of Robin Van Persie for Arsenal this season, winning the Golden Boot with 30 league goals. Germany is also looking very strong with such superstars as Real Madrid 1st teamers Mesut Özil and Sami Khedira, Bastian Schweinsteiger and Mario Gomez who played for Bayern Munich in the Champions' League Final.
Current holders Spain are in Group C with the dynamic Croatia and the unpredictable Italy. Republic of Ireland are the underdogs in that group, they'll relish toppling the giants. The mighty England is in Group D which also houses co-hosts Ukraine, Sweden and France.
The hint of warmer weather in the UK will send budding footballers sprawling for their goal-post jumpers as they hit the parks looking to create the world-class football we'll see at Euro 2012. Don't worry if you happen to pick up some stains on your favourite football shirt in showing your commitment to the cause. Just add a scoop of Vanish Oxi Action to the wash before you put it on and it'll be ready to wear for the next battle! It's tough on stubborn park standards like grass stains and mud, or even spots of last night's curry if you prefer appreciating the football from the comfort of your armchair rather than with the screaming kids in the park!