Jermain Defoe was left overwhelmed and overjoyed following an emotionally-charged England return at Wembley Stadium.
On his first Three Lions appearance since November 2013 the Sunderland striker reigned supreme, taking just 21 minutes to find the net to send Gareth Southgate's side en route to a vital win on the road to Russia.
With 60 minutes played he was replaced by Jamie Vardy and Wembley rose to appreciate the Black Cat’s performance, as the 34-year-old’s Wearside anthem belted around the home of football.
And it was a fitting end to an unforgettable day, with Defoe’s 20th England goal following a heart-warming pre-match build-up that saw the striker lead out his country alongside Sunderland fan Bradley Lowery.
"It's good to be back," said Defoe. "I had to keep my emotions in at the beginning with little Bradley with me.
“You can imagine how I felt doing that having done it with my club as well, so it’s hard to put into words how I felt walking out before the game.”
He continued: “To be back playing with the lads was special.
“I want to stay in the squad now; obviously I have got to go back to my club and make sure I finish the season strongly, like all the lads really.
“I will keep my head down, work hard and see what happens.”