Harry Kane hails England's 'perfect' start to Nations League after Lee Carsley enjoys debut win over Ireland

England returned to action for the first time since their Euro 2024 final loss to Spain and Gareth Southgate's departure from the post of head coach. Carsley's Three Lions call-ups had a few differences compared to Southgate's Euro 2024 squad, and England looked like a refreshed side against Ireland as they cruised to a 2-0 win over The Boys in Green.

England captain Kane opened up on the winning start to life under Carsley as he posted on X: "Perfect start to our Nations League campaign away from home."

England were dominant at the Aviva Stadium in Dublin as they started the game strong as Arsenal midfielder Declan Rice finished a chaotic run of play in Ireland's half. Jack Grealish, who had been snubbed by Southgate for the Euros, then doubled the Three Lions' lead on the night as he coolly slotted a cutback from Rice past Caoimhin Kelleher.

The Three Lions will now take on Finland at Wembley Stadium on September 10 as they look to get six of six points in their Nation League group stage before the end of the September international break.