England manager Roy Hodgson is pleased to have avoided Spain in the quarter-finals of Euro 2012 after being paired with Italy in the last eight.
The Three Lions and La Roja won Group's D and C respectively and therefore avoided each other in the next round. Hodgson's side will meet the Italians, who finished runners-up behind Spain in their group, and he is happy to be missing out on facing the defending champions.
"It has to be an advantage not to face Spain," said Hodgson.
"They are the clear favourites. They won the last World Cup and European Championship and are favourites to win this one.
"We can't deny we would rather not play them.
"But I have to be very careful what I say for fear of suggesting Italy are not a very good team and worthy opponents."
England meet Italy in the last eight on Sunday.
Written by
Matt Cotton
Matt Cotton
