Milner wants to avoid pointless Russian venture

PARIS: England need to secure at least a draw in their Euro 2016 opener against Russia on Saturday to avoid putting themselves on the back foot, James Milner has

PARIS: England need to secure at least a draw in their Euro 2016 opener against Russia on Saturday to avoid putting themselves on the back foot, James Milner has said. “What I’ve learned more than anything is: don’t lose your first game, whatever happens,” the midfielder told British media. “It’s great to win it and get off to a flying start but if you can’t get that win, make sure you are solid and don’t concede late on looking for the winner. Make sure you get a solid start, at least a draw, because as soon as you lose that first game in a three-game group you put yourselves under pressure straight away.”