England 5-0 San Marino: 5 talking points as Three Lions run riot at Wembley | FIFA World Cup Qualifiers 2022

England vs San Marino - FIFA World Cup 2022 Qatar Qualifier
England vs San Marino - FIFA World Cup 2022 Qatar Qualifier

#3 Dominic Calvert-Lewin impresses for England

England vs San Marino - FIFA World Cup 2022 Qatar Qualifier
England vs San Marino - FIFA World Cup 2022 Qatar Qualifier

One of the most improved England players in the last 12 months, Dominic Calvert-Lewin, just cannot stop scoring. Although he has had a few poor games with Everton in the last few weeks, the 23-year-old striker continues to be on song while playing for England.

Despite scoring twice on the night, Calvert-Lewin would be upset that he score more against modest opposition. The Everton man had two shots on target, a robust header and a tap-in from five yards, but he also missed two big chances.

Going by his performance against San Marino, Calvert-Lewin will fancy his chances of playing against Albania in England's next qualifying game.


#4 England's Chelsea full-backs put on a spectacular display

Trent Alexander Arnold was a notable England omission, but Reece James is fit and was at his best against San Marino.

The 21-year-old Chelsea right-back combined with his clubmate Ben Chilwell and displayed a complete performance at both ends of the pitch. The Chelsea duo bagged an assist apiece while also helping England keep a clean sheet.

San Marino's wide midfielders and forwards did not pose a threat to England's defence, as they barely had a shot on target. While Chilwell and James had minimal defensive work on the night, they created a combined four big chances at the other end of the pitch.


#5 England could make a deep run at the Euros this summer

England vs San Marino - FIFA World Cup 2022 Qatar Qualifier
England vs San Marino - FIFA World Cup 2022 Qatar Qualifier

England produced a fabulous performance against San Marino. They seemed to have a fairly settled 4-3-3/4-2-3-1 formation, which can change based on the match situation.

Their results in the remainder of the World Cup qualifying campaign before the summer could determine how far they would go at the Euros this summer.

England do seem to have the firepower, consistency and defence to go deep in the tournament. Whether they are able to overwhelm stronger opponents remains to be seen, though.

England are favourites to go to Qatar from Group I, but they'll also want to have a good performance at the Euros. Their performances in the tournament could determine how they fare in the rest of their World Cup qualifying campaign.

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