Montenegro travelled to Wembley in the hopes of putting a spanner in England’s qualification push but were eventually put to the sword, suffering a 7-goal defeat on Thursday night.
It was a night of milestones for England, playing their 1,000th game and Harry Kane taking his goal total to 31 – surpassing the likes of Frank Lampard and Alan Shearer – thanks to a first half hat trick.
This young squad will feel confident going into the tournament next year after some solid displays during qualifying. Alex-Oxlade Chamberlain – back to full fitness after a long-term injury for club and country – was first to get on the scoresheet after an arrowed effort found the bottom corner from one of three Ben Chilwell assists.
The Leicester City left back was also able to provide for two of Harry Kane’s headed goals after delivering perfect balls from set pieces. Marcus Rashford fired home for the fourth goal of the night, whilst an own goal from Montenegro’s Sofranac and Chelsea striker Tammy Abraham’s effort to poke home the seventh goal in the 84th minute sealed the victory.
Joe Gomez booed by fans
International break got off to an awkward start for Gareth Southgate who had to deal with the aftermath of a Raheem Sterling and Joe Gomez canteen bust up; the aftermath of an emotional encounter between the two league topping sides at the weekend.
With the situation seemingly well and truly behind everyone, it was surprising for Joe Gomez’s substitute appearance in the second half to be greeted by jeers from a number of home England supporters.
Southgate dropped Sterling for this game as punishment and the City forward took full responsibility for the incident, making the behaviour from the home supporters even more confusing.
Sterling wasn’t required on the night however, as England were able to breeze past Montenegro with little difficulty and secure their place at the top of Group A and thus solidifying their place at the European finals as well.