UEFA EURO reporter's view: France

Squad analysis
France are exceptionally strong in midfield and in attack, while the defensive area remains the major cause for concern for Les Bleus fans hoping to see Didier Deschamps's squad emulate the class of 1984 and win EURO on home soil. Even with Karim Benzema not considered for selection, Deschamps has an enviable wealth of forward options, especially in wide areas.

• France unveil EURO squad

One to watch
Antoine Griezmann could emerge as the modern-day equivalent to Michel Platini in 1984. The Atlético Madrid forward scored 22 league goals and is the darling of the French supporters. The exciting left-footer sees things quickly, has the talent to make good on his intent, and enjoys an excellent understanding with Olivier Giroud, the likely starter at centre-forward.

How they'll play
France will employ Deschamps' tried and trusted 4-3-3. Paul Pogba, Lassana Diarra and Blaise Matuidi are set to provide a well-balanced and athletic midfield trio, while Anthony Martial is competing with Dimitri Payet for a berth alongside Griezmann and Giroud in the attacking trident. France love to have the ball and attack, but do concede goals, as illustrated by the seven scored and four conceded in the two March friendly wins against the Netherlands and Russia.

What you won't know
Hugo Lloris must be sick of picking the ball out of the back of his net after an opposition set piece. Nineteen of the 39 goals shipped by Les Bleus since Deschamps took charge in 2012 have been conceded in this manner, including Mats Hummels' winner for Germany in the 2014 FIFA World Cup quarter-final. The likes of Real Madrid centre-back Raphaël Varane need to improve in this department if this is not to again be the side's Achilles heel in the summer.

How they'll do
France have the ability to go all the way to the final at the Stade de France on 10 July. The hosts have been given a decent Group A draw, though tougher tests than Romania, Albania and Switzerland will lie in store once they make the knockout stage. Coping with the pressure of an expectant public is essential for France to go all the way.

Most memorable EURO moment
It is impossible to look further than David Trezeguet's golden goal against Italy in the UEFA EURO 2000 final. Last November I had the pleasure of chatting to the scorer and Robert Pirès, who set up the goal, and their vivid recollections transported me back to that famous night in Rotterdam when France added the European title to the World Cup claimed at home two years previously.

What I'm most looking forward to this summer
Seeing the whole nation getting behind Les Bleus. Unlike hosts of some previous editions, France will be taking the show on the road in Group A, starting at the Stade de France in the Paris suburbs, and also taking in Lille in the far north and Marseille in the south. With an exciting, and potentially highly successful team, to get behind, the atmosphere throughout the 'hexagon' will be something to savour.

Follow David throughout the finals on @UEFAcomDavidC