England midfielder Jordan Henderson has admitted that his side should have beaten Malta more comfortably during their World Cup qualifier at Wembley this evening.

Gareth Southgate began his reign as interim manager with a 2-0 victory over the 176th-ranked team in the world courtesy of goals from Daniel Sturridge and Dele Alli.

Henderson was instrumental in both goals while playing alongside captain Wayne Rooney in midfield, but he acknowledged that the performance dropped in quality after the interval.

"We had chances for it to be more, that is the disappointment of the game, we did not get more goals. We got sloppy towards the end which we need to work on. It is good to get the three points," he told reporters.

"The number 10 role is perfect for Dele. Me and Wayne Rooney need to get the ball forward and offer protection when we lose the ball."

Henderson alone completed more passes (165) than the entire Malta team (160) during the match.