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Southgate pleased as England defeat Costa Rica

England impressed with a 2-0 friendly win against Costa Rica at Elland Road.

Manager Gareth Southgate made 10 changes from Saturday's win against Nigeria at Wembley - and was rewarded with some fine individual displays and a commanding team performance in their final friendly before they depart for Russia.

Manchester United forward Marcus Rashford was the standout performer, pressing his World Cup claims with an outstanding first-half strike to put England ahead and threatening throughout.

Burnley goalkeeper Nick Pope was given his debut as a second-half replacement for Jack Butland as Southgate made a host of changes, and Danny Welbeck - another substitute - wrapped up a thoroughly deserved win with a diving header from Dele Alli's ball.

Southgate said afterwards: "We made 10 changes and maintained the momentum with what we are doing.

"Everyone knew their roles and the collective effort of the group shows a really good mentality. That is epitomised by the three lads that have been with us on standby with their outstanding professional attitude."

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