Paul Simpson’s England Under-20s team began their World Cup campaign with an impressive 3-0 win against Argentina.

Head coach Simpson, who led Carlisle United to double promotions in 2005 and 2006, watched the young Three Lions get off to a winning start in South Korea.

Everton’s Dominic Calvert-Lewin headed home the opener, Newcastle frontman Adam Armstrong added a second and Chelsea’s Dominic Solanke scored a late penalty.

Meanwhile, Argentina’s Lautaro Martinez was sent off.

“The difference between the two teams was that we were outstanding in both 18-yard boxes,” said Simpson, speaking after the game.

“We defended well in our box and, in the other box, we were very clinical with our finishing as well. We finished our chances really well and it’s not just about possession, it’s about taking your chances and doing the other side of it as well.

“We knew it would be a difficult game because they’ve got some excellent players and they pass the ball well, so we struggled to cope with their shape in midfield at first.

“But we’re delighted with the start we’ve had to the tournament. It couldn’t have been a more difficult game to start with.”

England’s Under-20s had not won a World Cup finals game since 1997 before the weekend.

Cumbrian Simpson added: “Our record over the last 20 years hasn’t been good. This is the first win we’ve had in 20 years of Under-20s World Cup Finals, so it’s a big victory for us.

“I think the difference is this is a really talented group of players. They’re experienced and we’ve prepared well and come here on the back of a good season.”

Whitehaven’s Dean Henderson started on the substitute’s bench with Newcastle’s Freddie Woodman starting ahead of the Manchester United goalkeeper.

England will play Guinea in their next game tomorrow morning, before playing hosts South Korea on Friday.