Nasri: Nothing to fear

NO FEAR ... France midfielder Samir Nasri

SAMIR NASRI lit the touch-paper for France’s Euro 2012 Group D opener with England next week — by saying he would rather play the Three Lions than Germany or Spain.

Manchester City’s title-winning midfielder said: “Before the draw for the finals we were afraid of landing a monster like Spain or Germany.

“We’ve the potential to at least reach the quarter-finals. And this group is entirely within our grasp.”

Nasri also believes boss Laurent Blanc has banished the fear-factor for Les Bleus.

The former Arsenal star, 24, said: “Our squad is in harmony and since Laurent took charge the atmosphere has always been relaxed — and I don’t see that changing during the Euros.

“We’re under less pressure than in 2008. We’re not among the tournament favourites but we know we possess quality.”