EURO 2012 starts today and seldom can there have been a major sporting event which has been met with such low expectations.

It is a mere hors d’oeuvres before the main course of the London Olympics, which follow next month.

Overshadowed by the threat of racism and human rights issues and with an England team considered unlikely to make it past the group stages, optimism is hard to find.

In contrast to the wave of patriotism inspired by the Queen’s diamond jubilee celebrations, there are precious few signs of support for Roy Hodgson’s team – no flags flying from car windows; no “Come on England”

posters. The roar of the Three Lions has been replaced by a reluctant low growl.

But perhaps it will prove to be a good thing. England have previously gone into World Cups and European Championships with ridiculously high expectations.

Time and time again we have convinced ourselves that football is finally coming home, only to have to face the grim reality that we are not nearly as good as we thought we were.

Remember Euro 2004? Greece started out as the least fancied team in the tournament and emerged as the winners.

In all probability, that won’t happen with England this time round – but there is always the possibility.

Great expectations have a habit of ending in disappointment. Here’s hoping that low expectations turn into a pleasant surprise.