French tennis ace Richard Gasquet is backing his country to go on and win Euro 2016.

The No7 seed at Wimbledon was speaking immediately having thumped home hero Aljaz Bedene 6-3 6-4 6-3, claiming France are now the favourites to win the tournament.

Asked whether he was following the progress of his nation across the Channel, Gasquet replied: “Yes, of course, it’s very important for all French players [at Wimbledon]… And for France.

“Of course, I think they have everything [it takes] to be in semi-finals.

“They will be the favourites.

“But, of course, I’m following them a lot. Every day, every time I can read something… I’m watching all matches.

“Of course, I think they can win the title this year. They are really close for me to winning it.”

However world No10 Gasquet added that the threat posed by Iceland – conquerors of England in the last-16 – should not be underplayed.

The French star added: “Yeah, I think it will be tough.

“You know, every match is difficult. I think that’s a tough match.

“They [France] are favourites. France is a very good team. They play solid with big talent.

“Of course for me, they will win.

“But they need to be careful because Iceland has nothing to lose. But for me, we have a good team.”