Their first game is against Croatia in Vienna on June 8.

Krankl said it was the combination of the country's negligence in grooming its next generation of players and the string of second and third-rate veterans playing in clubs abroad which were at fault for the team's weakness.

The 55-year-old, who is serving as an ambassador for the tournament, said it would be difficult to keep up the momentum and enthusiasm for Euro 2008 among Austrians should their side go out early.

Heinz Palme, the Austrian government's coordinator for the three-week finals, said much hinged on the success of his team.

"What must not happen is that Austria get thrashed three times," said Palme.

As for the eventual winners, Krankl does not expect a repeat of the surprise victory claimed by Greece in 2004.

"As always it's the usual suspects, the favourites are Italy, France, Netherlands and maybe Spain," he said.