Euro Cup 2012 Draw: Dodging Group of Death Won't Solve England's Issues

The Three Lions dodged the bullet of a Group B draw. However, they still have a gauntlet of issues to get over as England faces an uphill battle in Euro 2012. 

One tiny, little football after another was opened on Friday. The same thought went through every single mind in attendance. It was the same thought that was shared by every fan watching the live draw on TV. 

Who would be placed into the Group of Death?

England is on yet another journey to bring some level of pride back into their play. They seem to be forever battling to prove they are an elite side on the national landscape. 

It's a battle that they are more often than not fighting against themselves, rather than against other teams. It's fitting as most of the issues facing the Three Lions next summer take place in their own locker room. 

When the dust settled, Group B was the most sinister, pitting Denmark against the giants of the Netherlands, Germany and Portugal. 

England fared far better in their Group D assignment. They will wage war with Ukraine, Sweden and France. However, before you start planning the parade, consider the following future landmines that rest for Fabio Capello's men.

France

England will get the side they played in Euro 2004. They went 1-0 up only to eventually fall to a 2-1 defeat.

However, that will hardly be on this team's mind. What will be is the spirited attack and rejuvenated side that continues to come back from an embarrassing stint at the World Cup. 

Wayne Rooney

While France will be putting together their side of the future, England's is being torn asunder. The magic man will be out of the beginning stages of Euro 2012 due to his suspension for bullish behavior. 

Rooney is appealing his three-match ban at the moment. However, even if it is upheld, the spot will no doubt be reserved for him as he sits out the all-important games. 

There is no way England can replace his pace or touch in the box. This is a huge loss if he is to indeed miss the first three games of the tournament.

Pressure

This is what always seems to do the boys in. England isn't just playing a side when they are on the pitch, they are playing against the assumption that they should be better than they are. 

The Cups continue to go to other countries and England is left to prove they can still contend. It's a wonder that the players don't come down with chronic ulcers.

England may have skirted disaster, but there is still plenty to worry about heading into next summer.