Early Frank Lampard and Darren Bent goals turned the spotlight off Fabio Capello as England eased past Wales in this afternoon's Euro 2012 qualifier in Cardiff.

England manager Capello had endured a torrid week in the media over his handling of John Terry's reinstatement as captain and defeat at the Millennium Stadium would have seen the pressure increase considerably.

2-0: Darren Bent slots the ball into the net from Ashley Young's cross

Yet that seemed unlikely from the moment Lampard struck with a seventh-minute penalty and Bent doubled the advantage with a typical close-range finish eight minutes later.

Wales, having been overpowered in the first half, restored pride with a competitive display after the break but Gary Speed could not be spared defeat in his first home international as manager.

The only major downside for England, who move to the top of Group G, was a booking for Wayne Rooney which will keep him out of the next qualifier against Switzerland in June.

England were rarely extended in the first period with the outstanding Ashley Young, playing alongside Rooney behind Bent, at the heart of all their good work.

Scott Parker, winning his first cap for four and a half years, was composed in front of the back four and Jack Wilshere, making his first competitive start, looked a natural fit in midfield.

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