London, Aug 8: Despite exiting at the Euro 2012 quarter-finals, England have shockingly jumped to third spot, their highest, in the latest FIFA world rankings.

EPL 2012-13 Special

The FIFA rankings, led by Spain on top followed by Germany in No. 2, are calculated based on the teams formed in the last 12 months, status of the match, opponent's ranking and national confederations strength.

However, England have managed to pip fourth place Uruguay and despite being in the semi-final and final, Portugal and Italy are in fifth and sixth place, respectively.

Roy Hodgson's men were overpowered by the Italians though the Three Lions bowed out in the penalty shootout. Besides the 1-0 win over Spain in Nov 2011 and a 5-1 win over Croatia at 2010 World Cup qualifiers, England have lost to Netherlands 2-3, won two matches against Norway and Belgium prior to Euro 2012.

England have not reached the last four at major tournaments since 1996. Their major win against a highly-ranked side came in the 2002 World Cup against Argentina.

England's record since the 2010 World Cup reads 13 wins, five draws and three losses.

However, FIFA takes into account of all international matches including friendlies played in the last four years. Wins against top opponents in a competitive tournament can fetch good points while matches played in the past 12 months count in full and previous years games count in half.

Moreover, England, who last won a major tournament back in 1966 and reached the semi-finals of Euro 1996, have also beaten the likes of Brazil (13), Argentina (7) and the Netherlands (8).

FIFA Top 10 Rankings:

1. Spain
2. Germany
3. England
4. Uruguay
5. Portugal
6. Italy
7. Argentina
8. Netherlands
9. Croatia
10. Denmark

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