Aston Villa's Konsa ensures clean sheet in 2-0 England win over Albania | OneFootball

Thomas Tuchel gave Aston Villa defender Ezri Konsa the start against Albania, and the center-back immediately rewarded his new manager's trust. In a 2-0 win that saw the Three Lions control the majority of the match, the English side nearly had a couple of moments of shock in the back. Dan Burn struggled on occasion against the opposition defenders, looking to pounce on even a half chance.

Luckily for England, however, Konsa proved to be equal to the task each time. The defender was forced to intervene a couple of times at the last moment. If it weren't for his awareness and cover, Albania may well have found an equalizer before the Harry Kane goal that ultimately put the game away.

The AVFC CB made a great case Friday evening to be in the starting XI moving forward. These are the types of matches that a side that possesses around 75% of the ball can often find a way to lose. Yes, Albania put all bodies behind the ball and frustrated the England attack, but a single chance can cause an entire team's efforts to unravel.

Similar to with Unai Emery as under Tuchel in the World Cup qualifier, though, Konsa showed an ability to keep an even head and showed a great level of composure. Either winning headers or shepherding the ball to Jordan Pickford, the 27-year-old offered a reliable presence on the backline for Tuchel.

Two other Aston Villa involvements

Marcus Rashford had also started for England, against the low block; however, the outside midfielder found it hard to get into the game. He did well in link-up play and threatened the opposing penalty area on occasion. Overall, it was an acceptable first fixture back for the current AVFC player, on loan from Manchester United, but he'll want a better showing against Latvia to solidify a starting 11 role.

Morgan Rogers also entered as a substitute in the 74th minute. After the Kane goal, the game more or less played itself out without too much fanfare for England going forward. The highlight for Aston Villa observers was undoubtedly Konsa. Even when others get back into the squad healthy, Tuchel will be hard-pressed to start anyone else over him.