Albania, France, Romania, Switzerland. That is how Group A will line up this summer as the European Championship’s come to France for the second time in 16 years.
In what will be one of the most highly contested tournaments of the modern era, Group A is perhaps the most interesting of all the first round cohorts.
Hosts France possess a fresh-faced side, keen to bring the side back to it’s former glory having struggled in the major tournaments over recent years. Neighbour’s Switzerland find themselves in possession of one the most exciting young squad’s in world football, and will be dying to make an impact at a major tournament for the first time in the country’s history.
Romania – who were at one point last year ranked 7th in the world according to FIFA – are resurgent, qualifying for their first tournament since the Group stage exit at Euro 2008. And finally, Albania are the new boys on the block, qualifying the their first ever major tournament.
All of the above set’s for an interesting mis-match of countries, who will all be looking to make an impression of the world stage each for their own reasons.
The Euro’s – while important to each nation – are also important to the club’s, as the tournament often gives managers and scouts a chance to eye up some of the Europe’s under the radar talents for the summer transfer window.
West Ham, having impressed this season under new manager Slaven Bilic, will be looking to push on next season as they just fell short of Champion’s League football this campaign.
The Hammer’s already have a young and eye catching squads in English football, however Bilic will certainly look for summer additions. If the Croat looks, he could find what he is after in the fascinating match up that is Group A.
Our landlord investigates and has selected FIVE Euro 2016 stars West Ham United should look to sign in the summer……
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PRESS THE IMAGE BELOW TO SEE THE FIVE GROUP A STARS!
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Breel Embolo
Linked with just about every striker in world football this summer, it is fair to say the Hammers and David Gold are looking for a frontman.
FC Basel’s Breel Embolo could be the answer to West Ham’s striking conundrum, with the youngster having already netted over 30 times in the Swiss Super League.
Vlad Chiricheș
Formerly of London rival’s Tottenham, the Romanian has again failed to mark his mark for current side Napoli, making only seven appearances for the Serie A side after what was a disappointing spell at Spurs.
The 26-year-old certainly has talent however, and a big performance as his countries captain this summer could show Tottenham and Napoli what they have been missing out on.
Moussa Sissoko
With Newcastle relegated, Toon midfielder Moussa Sissoko is almost certain to part ways with the club this summer.
Dimitri Payet has been an absolute revelation in East London since the Frenchman’s move from Marseille last summer, so if Sissoko has big tournament, fellow countryman Payet may just hint at a move to the Hammer’s for the colossal central midfielder.
Xherdan Shaqiri
Signed by Stoke for record £12 million last summer, the Swiss star has been sensational at times, looking a cut above his counterparts at the Brittania.
Altogether however, it was a frustrating season for the former Bayern Munich man who may look for a move to a club with a promise of European football, so he can really flaunt his stuff.
Samuel Umtiti
If Umtiti makes the final squad for the coming summer tournament, it is unlikely the 22-year-old will get a great deal of game time.
Currently of Lyon, the youngster has had a fantastic season however and will be sure to shine if and when given the opportunity.
The Hammers need reinforcements at the back, so Umtiti would be a solid addition.
