Grady Diangana’s first appearance for England U20s ended in a deserved victory for the young Lions, who ran out 2-0 victors against Germany.
The West Ham United youngster was named in the stating XI for Monday's friendly fixture, and put in a tremendous showing, going close with two efforts in the first period.
Diangana’s pace was a constant problem for defender Gian-Luca Itter, who would have been glad to see the Hammers star withdrawn on 72 minutes, bringing a close to his excellent international debut.
West Ham goalkeeper Nathan Trott was also in the squad for Monday’s fixture, featuring as an unused substitute.
Having impressed in recent weeks, since scoring twice on his West Ham debut in the Carabao Cup rout of Macclesfield Town, Diangana was given the nod by head coach Paul Simpson to make his first appearance for the England side.
The 20-year-old lined up on the right side of England’s three-player attack, supporting striker Eddie Nketiah up front, with the winger looking a threat on the flank.
While Germany enjoyed the first chance of the contest, with goalkeeper Aaron Ramsdale clawing away a header that seemed certain for the net, Diangana came close to opening scoring for the Three Lions.
A great run by the evening’s No7 saw him skip past three Germany defenders, only for his shot to find the side netting.
As the first half drew to a close, Diangana was through again, seeing a snap shot from around 12 yards go straight at German shot-stopper Markus Schubert.
The second period saw England storm into the lead. On 66 minutes Joe Willock netted the first goal, shrugging off a challenge before slamming the ball into the net.
Two minutes later the advantage was doubled, as Lukas Nmecha tapped in from close range.
Diangana’s race was run on 72 minutes, and the Irons forward was applauded off the Jobserve Community Stadium pitch as he was replaced with Eze Eberechi, with England holding on to claim the win against Germany.