Trent Alexander-Arnold scored a game-winning goal and shone in the middle of the field as England continued their march toward Euro 2024 with a convincing victory against Maltese underdogs.
When wearing a Three Lions jersey, the gifted full-back has rarely resembled the player who excels for Liverpool, and his possibilities have also been limited by the fierce competition at right-back.
On Friday night against Malta, Alexander-Arnold earned just his 19th England cap. He excelled in a midfield position and motivated Gareth Southgate's team to an easy 4-0 victory.
At the fully packed Ta' Qali National Stadium, the 24-year-old had an immediate effect. His outstanding opening ball put Bukayo Saka behind him and led to a cross that Ferdinando Apap converted into his own goal.
As he continued to shine, Alexander-Arnold delivered a magical moment in the 28th minute as he curled in only his second England goal while shooting from 23 yards.
The midfielder started a play that resulted in Harry Kane scoring a penalty and assisted in England's third goal by winning the ball high up the field.
The atmosphere in the away section was much better than it was on Southgate's previous trip to Malta in 2017, when Southgate's team was jeered off following a scoreless first half as many traveling supporters left early.
Again, a sizable contingent of England supporters left the stadium at halftime, but this time they did so toasting a job well done rather than complaining.
They didn't really miss much, save for Callum Wilson's late penalty conversion, which helped Southgate's team maintain their perfect record in Group C.
Alexander-Arnold had an immediate impact for England against the 172nd-ranked team as they jumped up to an early lead.
Harry Maguire, who was jeered by several locals, had two penalty requests denied after his energetic run down the right side of the field, and then Kane's low shot was blocked.
Alexander-Arnold then displayed his talent in the eighth minute as he took a touch and sent a powerful ball over the top of the Maltese backline to put Saka behind.
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