England captain Wayne Rooney has admitted that it is important for his side to get off to a winning start at Euro 2016 this summer.
The Three Lions kick off their campaign against Russia on June 11 before subsequent group games against Wales and Slovakia as they bid to end their 50-year wait for international honours.
England won all three of their warm-up matches by a one-goal margin, and Rooney believes that another victory would set them up nicely for a successful tournament.
"The first game massive. It's important we get off to a winning start," the country's record goalscorer told reporters.
"Everyone says you don't want to lose the first game, but the difference it can make if you win the first game is huge. It's a big game for us now, and we need to go in there and prepare well for it. The lads are buzzing and can't wait."
Rooney, who is the oldest member of the England squad at 30, is expected to win his 112th cap for his country against Russia in Marseille.
