GOOD WEEK FOR:▲ Adam LallanaIf the captain’s armband had been tossed in the direction of Lallana, rather than Joe Hart, against Lithuania then there would have been no surprise. The Liverpool midfielder is developing into one of England’s most-trusted performers and, crucially, since Euro 2016 his influence has been all-encompassing. In his last five appearances for his country, he has scored three goals, harassed Germany and conjured an assist for Jamie Vardy at Wembley yesterday. “The game in tight areas is where his quick feet and quick brain stand out. I’m really impressed with his mentality and quality.” Life without him is suddenly unthinkable for England.

Source: The Times March 27, 2017 11:01 UTC