France, the holders, failed to qualify for the tournament, which was held in West Germany.

And in the finals, embarrassment also came England's way as they failed to make it out of the group.

They conceded after only six minutes against debutants Republic of Ireland, and Ray Houghton's effort proved the winner.

Worse was to follow as the outstanding Marco van Basten hit a superb hat-trick for eventual champions Holland as they completely outclassed England 3-1.

England's nightmare was completed when the USSR beat them by the same scoreline.