Jake Howard played the full 90 minutes as England U17 opened their UEFA European Championship qualification campaign with a 3-0 victory over the Faroe Islands at St George’s Park.

England started brightly and controlled large periods of possession, asserting their quality early on against resilient opposition. Their dominance was eventually rewarded with three goals, ensuring a comfortable margin of victory to kick off the qualification campaign in style.

Howard impressed throughout and posed a threat going forward, registering efforts on goal in the 65th and 73rd minutes during a controlled England performance.

Watching from the sidelines was former Leeds United favourite Ian Harte, offering his support as Howard turned in a composed and confident display.

The result provides England with early momentum in the group as they now turn their attention to their next fixture in the qualifiers.

They will remain at St George’s Park to face Israel on Saturday 28 March, as the Young Lions look to continue their strong start in the competition.