England forward Ollie Watkins redeemed himself with a lone goal in the second half after failing to convert two big chances in the first half of England’s match against Australia.
They played the international friendly in Wembley Stadium in a bid to renew their confidence for their Euro clash against Italy next week.
Gareth Southgate named an inexperienced starting XI to take on the Socceroos and Ollie Watkins took charge in place of Harry Kane.
The national inexperience showed in the Three Lions’ unconvincing win against Australia.
Levi Colwill was understandably nervous on his England debut and conceded possession too easily. Trent Alexander-Arnold had limited impact in his hybrid fullback-midfield role.
England’s captain, Jordan Henderson was booed throughout the night, as his move to Saudi Arabia did not thrill the England fans at all.
In the second half, Trent Alexander-Arnold found Jack Grealish in the box and the winger picked out Watkins at the far post who tapped in the winner.
“Obviously we didn’t make it easy for ourselves, but it’s the first time for us all playing together. Not many of us have a lot of caps. There were only a few with more experience in the squad recently.
“It was tough and Australia played well and they didn’t make it easy for us. But you want games like that, you want a real challenge. An all-around good night.
“They’re the best ones, the tap-ins, I’ll take it all day. At the end of the day, it says your name on the Sky Sports app, and that’s all that matters so I’ll take it.
“Whenever I have had the opportunity in an England shirt I have done well. I know I can play at the highest level with these players. Whenever I go on the field I just try and do that.”
Ollie Watkins has scored in consecutive England appearances, with these coming 563 days apart.
