Man Utd's Wilfried Zaha Is Key to England's Hopes Against Italy in U21 Clash

England begin their quest to land the European U21 Championship trophy on Wednesday as the tournament officially kicks off.

Stuart Pearce's men face Italy in their first encounter, and with minnows Norway and Israel also in Group A, this could be the battle that decides who finishes first and second, respectively.

The Azzurri have nicked several players from the full international squad destined for the Confederations Cup—including Marco Verratti and a plethora of striking options—and appear formidable opposition on paper.

Pearce's men went all the way to the final four years ago only to be trounced by a monstrous German side; Manuel Neuer, Mesut Ozil, Sami Khedira, Mats Hummels and Benedict Howedes were among a young side who comfortably bettered the Three Lions.

In 2013 they'll be looking to go one better, and boast what is arguably a far stronger squad.

Fans will pin their hopes on Manchester United-bound Wilfried Zaha, who is the very epitome of a game-changer on his day.

The Ivory Coast-born wide forward has immense pace, trickery and strength to boot—he's essentially an Olympian trapped in the wrong sport. A very raw prospect, Zaha will need to focus on sharing the ball and not trying to do everything himself, particularly against a well-organised defence led by Luca Caldirola.

England look unlikely to keep a clean sheet against the Azzurri. As good as Jack Butland is, Italy's offensive firepower looks downright scary: Head coach Devis Mangia has Lorenzo Insigne, Ciro Immobile, Mattia Destro and Alessandro Florenzi to call upon for goals.

We could well be treated to a goal-fest, and the Three Lions will need to outscore Italy to come out the victors.

With no reliable striker on the roster—Connor Wickham, Nathan Delfouneso and Marvin Sordell hardly inspire confidence—Zaha will be looked to regularly coming in off the flank.

Italy don't boast the strongest set of full-backs in the competition, and Zaha has the chance to bully one of them. Winning his individual battle is key to England's chances here.

It's no disaster if England lose to Italy in their opener as they face a contender in the tournament, but a solid display that can be built upon is a must.

This young team will step onto the field free from the chains of expectation. It could be the trump card that sees them excel.

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