England secured their fourth consecutive World Cup qualifying victory at Villa Park, defeating Andorra 2-0 to preserve their flawless record under Thomas Tuchel.
Christian Garcia's unfortunate own goal in the 25th minute broke the deadlock after Noni Madueke's dangerous cross caused havoc in the visitors' defence.
Declan Rice doubled the advantage in the 67th minute, heading home from Reece James's precise delivery.
The Three Lions maintained their five-point cushion over Serbia in Group K, having won all four qualifiers without conceding.
England doubled their lead through Declan Rice after he headed home from a Reece James cross
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Despite the comfortable scoreline, the performance against the minnows proved laborious, with England struggling to penetrate Andorra's defensive wall throughout much of the contest.
The hosts dominated possession but produced an underwhelming display that failed to excite the Villa Park faithful.
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Tuchel's men appeared ponderous in their build-up play, frequently resorting to lateral passes rather than penetrating runs.
The German manager displayed visible frustration from the touchline as his charges struggled to unlock Andorra's rigid defensive structure.
England's attacking play lacked imagination and tempo, with the visitors content to defend deep and frustrate their illustrious opponents.
This marked another unconvincing performance following similarly tepid displays against Albania and Latvia earlier in the campaign.
The June encounter with Andorra had drawn boos from supporters, and whilst this showing avoided such criticism, it scarcely represented progress.
Noni Madueke was arguably England's brightest spark, forcing the own goal with a cross
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Madueke emerged as England's brightest spark, his pace and directness troubling Andorra throughout.
The Arsenal winger's willingness to drive at defenders created the opening goal and provided rare moments of excitement in an otherwise pedestrian display.
Nottingham Forest's Elliott Anderson marked his senior debut with an assured performance in defensive midfield.
The Under-21 European champion displayed composure and physicality, winning his duels and distributing efficiently.
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Rice operated in an advanced role, frequently joining the forward line alongside Harry Kane.
Marcus Rashford, a surprise pick, showed eagerness to impress following his international recall but struggled for consistency, whilst Eberechi Eze threatened sporadically without truly influencing proceedings.
Tuesday's encounter in Belgrade represents Tuchel's most significant challenge since assuming control.
Serbia trail by five points but possess genuine quality and will relish the opportunity to test England's credentials in a hostile atmosphere.
Thomas Tuchel has come under fire for a bland style of football while in charge of England
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The German tactician acknowledged his side "had a point to prove" following their uninspiring summer performances, including a humiliating 3-1 friendly defeat to Senegal.
His ambition to deliver attacking football whilst pursuing England's first major trophy since 1966 remains unfulfilled based on current evidence.
The Three Lions remain unbeaten in their World Cup qualifying group, with four wins out of four.
However, next year, there will no doubt be bigger tests to come should England finish top of their group, which almost looks a certainty.
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England look a safe bet to win their World Cup qualifying group
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With qualification hanging in the balance, England must demonstrate marked improvement against their principal Group K rivals.
Another pedestrian display could jeopardise their World Cup aspirations and intensify scrutiny of Tuchel's methods.