Attacker gives his opinions on this summer's tournament
Fans favourite Bobby Grant has returned from his summer holiday and is now ready for a feast of football with the European Championships beginning this Friday.Town’s top scorer last term is expecting an entertaining tournament in France, and is hopeful Roy Hodgson’s England side can go all the way.
However he admits he will have one eye on the performances of Northern Ireland, with Cod Army right back Conor McLaughlin involved in Michael O’Neill’s squad.
Here’s what he’s expecting to see in France…
How have you enjoyed your summer?
The summer has been relaxing so far. I’ve been given a fitness programme though from Youl Mawene and Luke Bussey the physio, so I guess you never really fully take your foot off the gas. I’ve managed to get ten days in where I’ve done absolutely nothing and have just let the body recover. It’s going to be a tough pre-season for us and we all know we have to improve massively from last year. The chairman, manager, myself and everyone else at the Club don’t want to be in a relegation battle again next season, we want to be looking at the other end of the table.
Have you been keeping busy?
We obviously can’t get away during the season so it’s always nice to be able to do that during the summer. I imagine every footballer will get away for a few weeks at some point to have time with their family and friends, and I’m no different. I’ve managed to stay ticking over though and like I say it’s a massive season for us this year.
Will you be watching the Euro’s?
I love football so I’ll definitely be watching the Euro’s. My missus has already told me that I don’t have to watch every game but it’s just part of what I do! I’ll be watching any game that’s on the TV to be honest and I’ll especially be looking out for Northern Ireland because Conor is obviously playing and I wish him all the best and want him to do well.
It’s great that Fleetwood have a representative out there, isn’t it?
He’s going to have a brilliant time and needs to enjoy every moment. I spoke to him on the phone last week and wished him all the best and I’m genuinely excited for him. It’s not often many players from this level get the opportunity to play in an international tournament so he’s very lucky. He’s played all of Northern Ireland’s group games during qualifying so deserves to be there. I can’t wait to watch him and see how he does.
And finally, how do you rate England’s chances?
If England go quietly about their business then they’ll be okay in my opinion. There’s no point over-hyping things with England because we all know what’s happened in previous tournaments. We’ve got a good squad with some great players.
Quickfire questions:
Winners: Germany
Runners up: Italy
Golden boot: Harry Kane
Dark horse: Sweden - anything is possible with Zlatan in their team!