Southgate offered answer to second striker conundrum

It was a week of contrasting fortunes for the two back-up strikers in England’s ranks, with Ollie Watkins enduring a difficult outing against Brazil on Saturday, only to watch on as Toney netted his maiden national team goal against Belgium. Granted, it did come from the spot, but it will still offer Southgate some clues as to who he might turn to should anything happen to captain Harry Kane.

Toney, who missed out on selection for the 2022 World Cup, not only converted from 12 yards during the first half, but the 28-year-old was also the player who won the spot kick to begin with. Breaking in behind the Red Devils’ backline, Toney tempted ex-Tottenham Hotspur man Jan Vertonghen into making a clumsy foul from behind to earn the penalty. He came close to netting a second during the second half as well, but this time the attacker’s effort was matched by Belgian goalkeeper Matz Sels, who pushed the ball into the side netting.