England's Euro draw a welcome tonic after headache of Terry saga

London: The last time an England team visited Bulgaria the knot of under-21 fans encountered two bears on the train to the stadium. Fortunately, both were on leads (the bears not the fans). Expecting the unexpected is always the rule on foreign trips but the qualifying route to Poland and Ukraine handed to Fabio Capello's men on Sunday looks pleasingly short of nasty surprises. Bears apart.

So after the self-inflicted wounds of the John Terry saga, England's healing process continues apace. This was a Euro 2012 draw that was just what the doctor ordered for the English patient.

Capello is the physician who seems to be able to cure most ills, although he has yet to be tested with metatarsals and a chronic phobia of penalties.

The Italian was predictably diplomatic about the Group G challenge, seeking to still any hearts sent racing at what appears a straightforward-looking draw, but privately he must be delighted.

After the squalls stirred up by Terry's conduct, some calmness now descends on England and that is just the way Capello likes it.

England's manager wants his warriors to have a composure on and off the field. That poise should begin returning to England, that feelgood factor that Capello brought during qualifying for South Africa.

Wales's youngsters will provide a test of sorts, Bulgaria away could be interesting but this is not a house of horrors for England.

A kind draw should have an immediate dividend for England's ambitions in South Africa. A five-team group, including a drive to Cardiff and the cheap flights to Sofia and Podgorica, means a less expensive qualifying campaign for supporters, some of whom were talking about now going to South Africa. Some had been baulking at the cost. Premier League managers will also be relieved by the number of games, only eight.

The most eagerly-awaited tie will be England's visit to Cardiff's Millennium Stadium. It will inevitably be given all the ‘Battle of Britain' build-up, but the football should be better than usual between the Home Nations.

John Toshack has some technically adept youngsters, like Arsenal's Aaron Ramsey, and the game will not be a gimme for England.

One thing that can be guaranteed is a terrific atmosphere. Unlike Wembley, the Millennium is designed to keep the noise in and increase it. The best stadiums are built like ravines, and the Millennium rises up from the touchlines. Wembley, priding itself on its generous leg room and emphasis on expansive views, leans back leisurely.

Judging by past experience, England should receive 6,800 tickets, although three times as many will apply. Unless the Swiss FA switch the tie to Basle, Berne looks particularly attractive for the group of England fans who go around collecting World Cup final stadiums. And for those looking for bears.