England had the ideal preparation for next Wednesday's World Cup qualifier with a 4-0 win over Slovakia. The striker who never scores, Emile Heskey, gave England an early lead.

Wayne Rooney sealed the Wembley win with 20 minutes left, fittingly set up by David Beckham on his record-breaking 109th appearance for an outfield player.

Two late strikes by Frank Lampard and Rooney completed the emphatic scoreline.

Rooney told Setanta Sports, "I thought we played really well."

"In the first half we controlled the game and we really should have scored more goals. It was a good performance throughout. It was great preparation for the qualifier on Wednesday.

"It's sad we have the injuries early on, it takes the shine off somewhat, but hopefully they'll be okay on Wednesday. I've got no problem leading the line (if they are not fit), I've done it before.

"I'm delighted I'm scoring goals for England," he added.

England coach Fabio Capello was particularly pleased keeper David James performance.

"We played very well," the Italian tactician said.

"We had a lot of chances to score goals in both halves. James made some fantastic saves. I'm happy. We played well. It was a fantastic score.

"I think, I hope... that against Ukraine we are even better," he said, smiling.

On the injury situation, he added, "Crouch is okay. He may be okay for the next game. Heskey, we have made a scan. We will know tomorrow."