Job done in Malta for England

England leave Malta with four goals and three points secured, beating Malta 4-0.

The three lions were dominant all evening, having 66% possession and prevented Malta from registering a single shot on Jordan Pickford’s goal. England turned dominance into substance, managing to convert the big chances when they came.

England took the lead as Trent Alexander-Arnold found Bukayo Saka who’s dangerous cross forced an own goal by the unfortunate Ferdinando Apap in the 8^th minute. Alexander-Arnold, who stood out throughout the evening in a midfield role, then whipped in a stunning England second from distance beyond a helpless Henry Bonello in the Malta goal. Harry Kane then won, and converted, a penalty to make it three before half-time. England enjoyed a lot of control in the second half without creating many clear-cut chances, but managed to get a fourth when substitute Callum Wilson won and then converted a penalty for his second international goal, his first since his debut in 2018 against the USA.

It was also a match Gareth Southgate would have learnt plenty from. Seeing Alexander-Arnold perform in a midfield role and watching Marc Guehi look comfortable in only his second competitive cap, playing as both a centre-back and left-back which showcases his versatility, which is an asset going forwards. Eberechi Eze also looked bright on his debut and seeing Callum Wilson get another goal in an England shirt for the first time in a while would have been pleasing.

For England it’s three games, three wins and nine points on the board towards the Euros next year, so no one can really complain.

Next up for the three lions is a clash against North Macedonia at Old Trafford on Monday night, where they will be hoping to make it four wins from four.

Written by Jack Dixon