England started the Thomas Tuchel era with a workman-like 2-0 win over Albania near Wembley in the opening match of their World Cup qualification company.
The German manager handed debut to Arsenal left back Lewis Myles-Skelly and Newcastle's League Cup hero than Burn, while Marcus Rashford was welcomed to the England fold.
Myles-Skelly scored the first goal of the new regime when he held the Pinpoint of Jude Bellingham in the 20th minute to become the youngest debutant goal scorer ever.
But the expected flurry of goals against Minnow opponents did not come when England had trouble breaking down a stubborn defense.
In the end, they were owed to the characteristic finish of Harry Kane to prevent a nervy start, while the striker of Bayern Munich destroyed a ball in the box before she quickly turned and shot in the corner to doubl the benefit of England in the 77th minute.
So, who would have caught Tuchel's eye and who did not know their chance against modest opposition?
Lewis Steele from Mail Sport assesses the players at Wembley while Tuchel starts his reign with a victory.
England (4-2-3-1)
Jordan Pickford – 6.5
Mackem Pickford almost collided with his Geordie colleague than Burn and let a comically own goal, but would otherwise be a spectator.
Kyle Walker – 6.5
Perhaps he has lost a garden, but he is still fairly fast and the former skipper in Manchester City, now at AC Milan, has caused problems in the future.
Ezri Konsa – 7
Has saved a certain goal with a final grip tackle in the second half. Big show of faith of Tuchel to give the Villa man the nod for the will of Marc Guehi, Levi Colwill et al.
Dan Burn – 6
Fire on the rear stick at Wembley – where have we seen that before? No goals this time, but the big boy was a threat when attacking corners.
Myles Lewis -Skelly – 8
What an excellent football player. Had to rub your eyes when he scored to ensure that it was not kane, the productive nature was.
Declan Rice – 7
Nice assist for Kane. England completed more fits in the first half than 45 minutes on the records of Opta.
Curtis Jones – 7
Former Liverpool assistant -Manager Pep Libnders said last year that England should build their midfield around Jones, Rice and Bellingham -and Tuchel clearly took knowledge.
Phil Foden – 6.5
Has had a frustrating season, but had a number of clear moments here, which cut in from the right side. Fans are still waiting for the city star to show his best level for his country.
Jude Bellingham – 8.5 (MOTM)
The best player on the field. He had so often the keys to unlock a stubborn, deep Albania line, with a nice assist. Tuchel clearly knows that he is the most important man.
Marcus Rashford – 6.5
A pleasant display for the Villa loaner, but Rashford's first touch abandoned him several times. But clearly play with confidence.
Harry Kane – 7.5
Take his goal with confidence in the second half with an excellent touch and clinical finish in balance. Could have had one in the first half, but for a nice Djimsiti block.
Replacement
Anthony Gordon (for Rashford, 74min) – 6
Jarrod Bowen (for Foden, 74min) – 6
Morgan Rogers (for Jones, 74min) – 6
Jordan Henderson (for rice, 82min)
Reece James (for Lewis-skelly, 90min)
Not used: D Henderson, Trafford, Guehi, Colwill, Eze, Solanke, Livramento.
Manager – Thomas Tuchel – 7
Animated, always barking instructions and often spotted with hurrying up thoughts in his notepad. A pleasant first night for the new Gaffer.
Albania (4-2-3-1): Strakosha 5 (Kastrati 81); Balliu 5, Ajeti 6, Djimsiti 7, Aliji 6; Asllani 6, Ramadani 6; Asani 5 (Hoxha 78), Laci 6 (Pajaziti 78), Bajrami 5 (Broja 63, 6); Uzuni 5.
Subs not used: Sherri, Shehu, Manaj, Mihaj, Kumbulla, Berisha, Muci, Ismajli.
Booked: DjimSiti.
Scorers: none.
Manager: Sylvinho 6.
Referee – Alejandro Hernandez (ESP) – 6
The game has passed without incidents.
Presence: 82.378.
Comments