England defender Phil Jones has said that he is looking forward to the challenge of taking on Spain and France in friendlies over the next week.

The Three Lions begin their preparations for Euro 2016 by taking on reigning champions Spain in Alicante this Friday before playing tournament hosts France at Wembley on Tuesday.

Jones has stated that the games will allow England to test themselves against stronger opposition after coming through qualification with a perfect record.

"When the friendlies get announced these are the games you want to play – against the best in the world," the Manchester United defender told the Football Association's official website.

"We are on the route where we are building up to the Euros and all the games we have lead up to that. It starts now. Spain have a great history and so have we. But we need to make sure we focus on how we are going to beat them."

Jones has played 18 times for England.