Gareth Southgate heaped praise on Marcus Rashford as it was the Manchester United man’s incredible strike that set England on their way to a comfortable 2-0 win over Costa Rica.
Danny Welbeck’s header sealed the win for England to ensure they finish off their World Cup preparations in positive fashion.
The Three Lions were determined to put on a show for a packed Elland Road before they fly off to Russia and Rashford - who made an explosive start to the game - certainly got the memo.
The striker teased the visitors’ defence on frequent occasions and executed a beautiful flip-flap in the early stages.
Rashford then opened the scoring in spectacular style on 13 minutes to give England a deserved lead – a strike that left Costa Rica and Real Madrid keeper Keylor Navas helpess.
The hosts eased up after the break, although they went close with efforts from Jordan Henderson and Harry Maguire.
But it was substitute Danny Welbeck whose relatively simple header put the game beyond any doubt after a good cross from Dele Alli.
It was a satisfying performance from England whose next game comes in the World Cup against Tunisia on June 18 - a game you can listen to LIVE on talkSPORT.
And Southgate was quick to praise the resolve of Rashford after a difficult club season for the youngster.
Southgate said: “He’s [Rashford] enjoyed his football. It’s clear to everyone that he has had a difficult end to the season.
“What was apparent to us is that there are times where players can try too hard and Rashford is desperate to do well for club and country.
“I said to all the players that I was expecting mistakes to be made in this game. If there are not any mistakes then we’re not trying hard enough to take risks.
“If you try and be creative you get the moments like we did and goodness me, what a goal!”
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