Video: England 2 – 0 Lithuania [2018 World Cup Qualifier] Highlights 2016/17

Video 7 years ago

Video: England 2 – 0 Lithuania [2018 World Cup Qualifier] Highlights 2016/17

The returning Jermain Defoe and substitute Jamie Vardy gave England a 2-0 win over Lithuania to consolidate their lead in Group F.

Jermain Defoe made a goalscoring return to the international fold as England chalked up a routine 2-0 World Cup qualifying win over Lithuania.

The 20th strike of Defoe’s international career came after 21 minutes at Wembley and four years on from his 19th versus minnows San Marino in March 2013.

Aside from the 34-year-old Sunderland striker celebrating a starting berth in familiar style, there was little else to write home about in a forgettable encounter.

Manchester City centre-back John Stones was forced into a goal-line clearance on the stroke of half-time but Gareth Southgate’s side closed out victory in comfort after Defoe’s replacement Jamie Vardy doubled their advantage midway through the second period.

Burnley’s Michael Keane made his competitive debut alongside Stones at the heart of defence and England are the only side yet to concede a goal in the European qualifying section.

They sit five points clear at the top of Group F ahead of nearest challengers Slovenia facing Scotland at Hampden Park later on Sunday.