Manchester City winger Raheem Sterling hit a hat-trick as England thrashed the Czech Republic 5-0 for their opening Euro 2020 qualifier.

Manager Gareth Southgate gave Jadon Sancho his first international start and Borussia Dortmund's 18-year-old repaid his faith with a fine display.

But it was Sterling who stole the show as England built on the development that saw them reach the World Cup semi-finals in Russia and the finals of the inaugural Nations League. Harry Kane and a Tamas Kalas own goal completed the scoring.

England manager Gareth Southgate told ITV: "I thought Raheem was electric all night. He has looked like that all week in training. I'm pleased for him, it is a special night for him."

"I think Raheem has really matured as a person and a footballer. He's hungry for goals and hitting things instinctively without thinking too much."

Sterling said: "It was a beautiful team performance and I was happy to help the team get the win.

"I'm just being confident in myself, I'm trying to get in areas and take shots, not to worry about anything. The first goal pleased me most, to get myself up and running."