England's best and worst players in 4-0 win at Malta

England didn't let complacency become an issue in their Euro 2024 qualifying match at Malta on Friday, running out 4-0 winners in Ta' Qali.

The Three Lions were able to ease their way to three points and maintain their 100% start to Euro 2024 qualifying.

An own goal from Ferdinando Apap saw England into an early lead at the National Stadium, before two quick-fire strikes around the half-hour mark saw Gareth Southgate's men take control of the tie. Trent Alexander-Arnold scored a cracker from range, before Harry Kane made no mistake from the penalty spot after being fouled by Matthew Guillaumier.

England were able to play at a lower pace in the second half and rounded off the scoring when Callum Wilson slotted home from 12 yards after Steve Borg handled the ball in the 18-yard-box.

Here were the Three Lions' best and worst performers on the night.

England's best player vs Malta

Trent Alexander-Arnold (9/10)

This was the perfect game for Alexander-Arnold to test his midfield capabilities on the international stage.

The natural right-back was moved higher up the pitch by Jurgen Klopp during the final third of Liverpool's 2022/23 season to great effect.

Alexander-Arnold's controlling style translated well on Friday, taking charge of the midfield battle, leading England's attacks and picking the Maltese lock.

His through ball to Bukayo Saka led to the opening own goal, while his own strike later in the first half was a thing of beauty.

Honourable mention: Bukayo Saka (8/10)

Saka only played 45 minutes after picking up an ankle injury, but he was England's second-best player in that time.

His low cross which led to the opener was destined to fall to Kane, only for Apap to race in and fire into his own net.

Malta didn't have much of an answer for Saka's pace and trickery other than to double up on him and challenge the winger with aggression. He was injured under a sliding tackle but this was without malice.

England's worst player vs Malta

Jordan Pickford (5/10)

It's hard to look bad in a 4-0 win at a minnow like this, so almost by default, this accolade goes to goalkeeper Jordan Pickford.

Malta had zero shots and zero touches in the England penalty area. Therefore, Pickford had nothing to do to try and save his side.

Sorry, Jordan.

Dishonourable mention: Kieran Tripper (5/10)

Where Alexander-Arnold was able to step into the spotlight, Kieran Trippier was able to side-step out of it.

The Newcastle right-back was far more withdrawn and if anything used for defensive shape and balance, while he wasn't afforded many opportunities to gallop forward.

Again, sorry.

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