Former Man Utd star Angel Gomes praised the “sublime” England moment

England needed just 18 minutes to take the lead in their UEFA Nations League away game in Finland on Sunday.

The Three Lions desperately need a result after their shock 2-1 home defeat to Greece in midweek, which cast doubt on their hopes of promotion back to League A.

After some nervous early passes, England found their rhythm and pushed their hosts further and further back.

They were rewarded in the 18th minute when Manchester City striker Jack Grealish found space in the penalty area and got past Bayer Leverkusen goalkeeper Lukas Hradecky.

However, it is Angel Gomes who perhaps deserves the most credit for this goal.

The former Man Utd youngster, who now plays for Lille in Ligue 1, found space between the Finnish lines and expertly controlled a pass from Trent Alexander-Arnold before turning it around and laying it on a plate to Grealish.

Back in the team, back on the scoresheet for Jack Grealish??

But that pass from Angel Gomes needs some love?#ITVFootball | #FINENG pic.twitter.com/tY9LFzDz8L

– ITV Football (@itvfootball) October 13, 2024

Angel Gomes' 'sublime' pass sets up Jack Grealish

Gomes' contribution to the opening goal did not go unnoticed by experts including former England internationals Matthew Upson and Lee Hendrie.

“Well, that’s a very clever move by England! “Angel Gomes, what a lovely pass from the corner,” Upson said on BBC Radio 5 Live. “Trent-Alexander-Arnold fires it into him and the pass he finds (Gomes) Grealish is absolutely sublime.”

Reporting on the game in the Sky Sports studio, former Aston Villa midfielder Hendrie said: “Since that slow start they have turned things around really well.” Gomes' through ball is fantastic to support Grealish. He came into the half corner and Finland tried to get out.

“Grealish celebrated with his thumb in his mouth to celebrate his new baby. England needed this goal. There's a great work ethic and movement that I didn't see against Greece. Jack used his initiative to come in and accomplish his goal.”

Top photo by Julian Finney/Getty Images