ONCE again England's participation in an international football tournament is dominated by reports of the activities of drunken yobs and hooligans.

We do not condone the loutish behaviour of any individuals. However, the most recent incidents surrounding Euro 2004 need to be put in context.

There was no trouble in Lisbon on Sunday night when England played France. Indeed, the Portuguese authorities praised the supporters for their behaviour inside and outside the stadium.

And there have been no reports of trouble in and around Coimbra, where England play Switzerland this afternoon.

No one can question the efforts taken by both the Football Association and our police forces to tackle hooliganism.

All reasonable steps have been taken to prevent known trouble-makers from travelling abroad, and to ensure that those who actually attend the matches are well behaved.

Any trouble in Portugal has been many miles away from where the England matches have taken place.

The violence and drunkeness on display in the Algarve this week and in towns and cities across England on Sunday night are beyond the control of the FA.

They are a reflection of the binge drinking culture of our country's youth, rather than our football supporters.

Yes, they bring shame on our country, but the FA does not deserve censure because of them.

We must hope that the England matches remain trouble-free, and that Euro 2004 is remembered for its football rather than its thuggery.

As for the louts on the streets of England and the Algarve, we trust the relevant police forces will deal with them in the appropriate manner.