Jack Grealish was delighted that England returned to winning ways with a “dominant” 3-1 victory over Finland in Helsinki.
The Manchester City man opened the scoring for the Three Lions, netting his second goal in three international appearances, after a superb assist from Angel Gomes – and dedicated the strike to his newborn daughter Mila.
Trent Alexander-Arnold’s brilliant free-kick and Declan Rice’s finish sealed the victory in the second half and Grealish was thrilled with the win.
He said: "The goal was for my daughter. I’m so happy.
"It all comes from the manager letting us play with that freedom. I can't remember exactly what happened but I came inside, I think Trent ended up out wide, and I play with Angel every day in training, I know what a top player he is.
"I haven't watched it back yet but I can remember it being a brilliant assist.
🅰️ @agomes_47
⚽️ @JackGrealish
1-0 to the #ThreeLions in Finlandpic.twitter.com/agqCdtosuI
— England (@England) October 13, 2024
"We could've had a few more especially toward the end as the game opened up. It was difficult at times in the first half but we went in at half-time with a one-goal lead and I think we dominated the game from there on.
"I think at the end we're a bit gutted to concede from a set-piece but we needed a win today so we’re happy with that."
Grealish was full of praise for interim head coach Lee Carsley after the victory, revealing that he is loving life in an England shirt.
He said: "Whatever happens with the England manager, there will always be some people saying negative stuff. Before, people were calling for all the so-called attacking players to play and then we do it and it didn't work for one game so there were a few people moaning.
"I don't really get it. It can happen in games, sometimes everyone gets beat in international football. Listen, I love coming here. Lee's a top, top manager, a brilliant guy and I love playing for him.