Three Lions bring down Super Eagles at Wembley

ENGLAND'S World Cup preparation got off to a strong start as the Three Lions beat Nigeria 2-1 at Wembley in one of two pre-tournament friendlies.

Gary Cahill headed England in front after seven minutes before captain Harry Kane doubled the Three Lions' lead before half-time when a well-struck shot proved too strong for Francis Uzoho in the Super Eagles' goal.

The visitors, who will compete against Argentina, Croatia and Iceland in Group D at Russia, pulled one back through Arsenal's Alex Iwobi but they rarely threatened to breach Jordan Pickford in the England goal.

Southgate continued to utilise the back three which he deployed in the March friendlies against Holland and Italy while Everton stopper Pickford now looks set to get the nod when England play Tunisia in their Group G opener on June 18.

There was little bookmaker reaction to the victory in the outright market, with the Three Lions still available to back at 16-1 for World Cup glory.

England will face Costa Rica at Elland Road on Thursday evening as Southgate seeks to finalise his selection for Russia.