Matthaus backing Spain

German legend Lothar Matthaus has declared Spain as his favourites to win the Euro 2008 next month.

Matthaus, himself a World Cup winner with Germany in 1990, insisted that Spain's abundance talent and years of under-achievement will drive them to resurrection.

Lothar Matthaus said:

"I won't change my opinion: The Spaniards are my favourites.

"They have already failed so many times before, and this is now their turn."

Spain are again one of the favourites this time around and once again have an immensely talented squad. The likes of Fernando Torres, Xabi Alonso, Cesc Fabregas and David Villa are in top form and Spain are once more touted to lift their first silverware in over 40 years.

Lothar Matthaus though thinks that Italy are not good enough for the title since they have a number of players who are past their prime. He had this to say about a few of the other teams:

"rance will be the champions of Europe, Holland will advance from the group stage, and Italy will be eliminated."

The Euro 2008 finals start on June 9.