FIFA World Cup 2022: It’s great for him and great for us – Gareth Southgate heaps praise on Marcus Rashford

England secured a dominant 3-0 win over Wales in their last Group stage of the ongoing FIFA World Cup to seal their place in the knockout stages. England’s forward Marcus Rashford scored a brace while Phil Foden also scored a goal in the 68th minute.

The first half ended goalless but England was able to convert their chances in the second half. Meanwhile, the team’s boss Gareth Southgate showered praise on Rashford as the youngster delivered for the team when it mattered the most.

Rashford has been in good form for Manchester United this season. In fact, Rashford started for England for the first time since June last year and he was able to grab his chance.

“It’s been a challenge for him,” said Southgate. “I went and saw him in the summer and had a long chat, he had some clear ideas on what he felt he needed to do and you can see with his club, that has shown itself with us. We have a different player to the Euros. “It’s great for him and great for us.”

England finished the group at the top with two wins and a draw and thus a total of seven points.

Meanwhile, England was able to take only one shot on target in the first half when Marcus Rashford delayed his attempt, and Wales’ goalkeeper Danny Ward did well to narrow the angle by coming forward. Foden also had a chance when Bellingham provided him with an assist but the youngster’s shot went well over the post.

“In moments I thought both of them [Rashford and Foden] was a bit quiet in the first half,” Southgate said.

“We decided to switch wings and we thought that might allow them to go on the outside but also the chance to come in and they responded really well.

“And of course for them both to get the goals is great.”

It was a dominant performance from England and they will look to carry the good show in the Round of 16.