Former England striker Michael Owen reckons the Three Lions will be too strong for Holland in their Nations League semi-final - and has backed Raheem Sterling to play a starring role.
Gareth Southgate’s men face Holland in Guimaraes on Thursday in a last-four clash, with either host country Portugal or Switzerland awaiting the winners in Sunday's final.
Two victories would be enough to crown Southgate's side as the first-ever winners of the Nations League and give England a first piece of major silverware since winning the World Cup in 1966.
And Owen, who scored 40 goals in 89 appearances for the Three Lions, believes his country will overcome their European rivals.
Speaking to BetVictor , he said: “The Three Lions have won their last five games in all competitions and scored five against both the Czech Republic and Montenegro in the Euro 2020 qualifiers back in March.
“I feel England have the stronger side and deeper squad and did beat Thursday’s opposition 1-0 in Amsterdam in Ronald Koeman’s first game in charge back in Match 2018.
“The Oranje have improved since that friendly, however, and they did qualify past world champions France and a talented Germany side, so nobody can say they do not deserve to be in the finals.”
Key to England’s chances of winning on Thursday will be Sterling, who enjoyed a stunning season as Manchester City clinched a memorable treble.
The winger has also been in impressive form for England - and Owen feels Sterling will deliver again.
He added: “Raheem Sterling has scored six times in his last four internationals and the City attacker should be fit and fresh for Thursday’s semi in Guimaraes.
“I have a feeling he will have a big say in the Finals.”
