England boss Roy Hodgson believes the nature of his side’s friendly win over Italy is hugely encouraging ahead of their World Cup qualification campaign.
England, who are 4/11 with bookmaker to win their qualification group, defeated the Azzurri 2-1 in Switzerland. Five players were handed debuts by Hodgson, who also recalled Frank Lampard and Michael Carrick.
Jack Butland, John Ruddy, Jake Livermore, Ryan Bertrand and Tom Cleverley were not overawed by the occasion, giving Hodgson plenty to think about before 7th September, when England take on Moldova.
“It was the type of game I sort of expected; two teams with a lot of changes looking to make a big impression ahead of the qualification campaign,” said the England manager.
“I am happy with the way we responded to that challenge and the performance we gave.
“It’s the qualifiers that really count, but it’s nice to know we have a deeper squad of players than that we took to the Euros.”