Gary Neville is confident England’s future is in safe hands.

After an impressive start to Roy Hodgson’s reign as manager, the Three Lions face Italy on Sunday looking to reach their first semi-final since 1996.

While optimism abounds that England will achieve their objective in Kiev’s Olympic Stadium, it would be no surprise either if they returned to their Krakow base preparing to pack their bags for home.

Then thoughts will turn to another meeting with Italy, in Berne on August 15, a friendly that provides the build-up to a tricky World Cup qualifying campaign that begins in Moldova.

It represents Hodgson’s first chance to put his own imprint on his squad, having opted thus far to rely on the majority of the men who qualified for the Euro 2012 under Fabio Capello.

And Neville feels his boss will be spoiled for choice.

“This squad is the second or third youngest in the tournament,” he said.

“And there are young players to come. (Jack) Wilshere, (Kyle) Walker, (Chris) Smalling, (Daniel) Sturridge, and we would like to see more.

“They will get their opportunity in this next couple of years. We know that the manager talks about them and wants to bring them in.”

They could not be making the transition at a better time either. In the eight weeks since he was approached to replace Capello, Hodgson has brought a remarkable serenity to the national side.

It is a far cry from the rancour of South Africa, or indeed many of the squads Neville was a part of, largely because there is no clash of egos.

“This is a squad without ego,” said Neville.

“You can talk into a microphone about spirit all you like. They are showing it on the pitch.

“We have big characters in the dressing room but they are all fighting for the same cause.”