World Cup

[monks data]

Attendance: 81,718

World Cup Qualifying - Europe | Group Stage

Oct 8, 2016 at 5pm UK

England
2-0
Malta

Sturridge (29'), Alli (38')

FT(HT: 2-0)

Gareth Southgate hails "outstanding" Jesse Lingard

By Barney Corkhill, Editor | 08 October 2016

Interim England manager Gareth Southgate is effusive in his praise for the "outstanding" Jesse Lingard following his international debut against Malta.

Interim England manager Gareth Southgate has described Jesse Lingard's performance during the 2-0 win over Malta this evening as "outstanding".

The Manchester United attacker was handed his international debut for the World Cup qualifier at Wembley - a ground where he has scored memorable goals in the FA Cup final and Community Shield already this year.

The 23-year-old was unable to get on the scoresheet against Malta, but Southgate was still effusive in his praise for the debutant.

"I think Lingard had an outstanding debut, linked the play and looked a real threat. He is an exciting player and the stage was made for him," he told reporters.

"He's enjoyed Wembley, scored twice here in past for Manchester United, and I thought he had a very good game."

Lingard will be hoping to keep his place in the side when England travel to take on Slovenia on Tuesday.