Internationals | Assist for Xavi in big win for Netherlands

Xavi Simons stepped off the bench to set up the Netherlands’ fourth goal in their 4-0 home win over Finland in World Cup qualifying on Sunday.

The attacking midfielder replaced Donyell Malen in the 79th minute and just five minutes later, his pass led to Cody Gakpo lashing in from outside the box to complete the scoring.

Micky van de Ven enjoyed a clean sheet at the other end – he started the game before being replaced by Nathan Ake 19 minutes from time.

Malen, Virgil van Dijk and a Memphis Depay penalty, all in the first half, had put the Netherlands in command.

The result strengthens the home side’s position at the top of Group G – only second-placed Poland can mathematically catch them.

Earlier on Sunday, young defender Harry Byrne started and played 66 minutes for Republic of Ireland Under-19s in their 2-2 draw away to Albania in a friendly.

Our trio on duty for England Under-18s were also involved in a 2-2 friendly draw as their meeting with France ended all square at St George’s Park. Winger Tynan Thompson and defender Elijah Upson started – they were withdrawn after 63 and 75 minutes respectively – with the latter replaced by Spurs team-mate Jun’ai Byfield.