England (Andy James, @UEFAcomAndyJ)

Gary Cahill's withdrawal from the England squad is a great shame for Roy Hodgson's side. The Chelsea FC defender enjoyed a fine second half of the campaign which culminated in UEFA Champions League final success in Munich. The 26-year-old was all set to cap his season with a strong showing in Poland and Ukraine, but a double fracture of the jaw put paid to his UEFA EURO 2012 dream.

Liverpool FC youngster Martin Kelly, 22, has been called in as a replacement and, having only made his debut in the recent friendly in Norway, should gain valuable international experience at the tournament. However, with Kelly unlikely to step straight into the central defensive void, the discussion reopens as to England's strongest back four.

Phil Jagielka and Joleon Lescott each staked strong claims in the Three Lions' pre-tournament friendlies to join John Terry in the middle and, depending on the latter's fitness – which is by no means guaranteed after he suffered a hamstring injury against Belgium – the former Everton FC duo may even get the chance to rekindle their old club partnership against France. Also in contention is Manchester United FC's Phil Jones, a more versatile option who is equally adept at full-back or in defensive midfield.

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