Japan v England - Player Ratings

30 May 2010 17:56

Football.co.uk rates the players involved in England's unconvincing 2-1 victory over Japan.

David James – 5/10

Had very little to do during his 45 minutes on the pitch but dealt with any danger with minimal fuss.

Although he was not at fault for the goal, his lack of involvement will have done little to impress Capello.

Glen Johnson – 5/10

After his stunning goal against Mexico on Monday, Johnson failed to show the same attacking prowess against inferior opponents today.

Often criticised for his defensive ability, the Liverpool man was caught out for the Japanese goal by allowing central defender Tulio the space to shoot.

John Terry – 5/10

Looked clumsy and lacking in confidence, particularly during the abysmal first-half showing.

He missed a number of headers and interceptions - not a good performance from the former skipper.

Rio Ferdinand – 5/10

Another less than inspiring display from the new England captain saw him gift a clear-cut opportunity to Japan after being outmuscled and then missing his kick.

Like Terry he improved in the second half but will need to be a lot better when the Three Lions take on superior opposition in South Africa.

Ashley Cole – 6/10

Despite failing to clear the Japanese goal off the line, Cole was reasonably solid on his return to the international stage.

His first-half partnership with Aaron Lennon didn't work but in the second-half he attacked with confidence, ultimately delivering the cross which led to the winning goal.

Theo Walcott – 5/10

Yet another frustrating game for Theo as he struggled to make a positive impact during his 45 minutes on the pitch.

He consistently failed to beat the Japanese left-back and could only manage a couple of decent deliveries into the box.

Tom Huddlestone – 5/10

Worked hard but failed to hit the heights of his Tottenham performances over the last campaign.

He looked to spread the play when given the opportunity but failed to use his impressive strength to dominate the tiny Japanese midfield.

Frank Lampard – 6/10

Not scared to fly into a tackle, Frank had a decent game compared to most of his team-mates but was still far from on top-form.

Missing a second consecutive penalty will have done his confidence no favours heading into South Africa.

Aaron Lennon – 5/10

Looked awkward on the left-wing in the first-half, having to constantly cut in on his favoured right foot.

Should have scored after being played in by Rooney but improved slightly in the second period after being switched to his favourite position.

Darren Bent – 5/10

Looked lively in the opening minutes but gradually drifted out of the game as the half went on.

Had one headed opportunity which he should've done better with - not enough to win a place on the plane to South Africa.

Wayne Rooney – 7/10

The one bright spark in an otherwise sloppy team performance.

Wayne lost possession a few times early on but more than made up for it with his fantastic work-rate and a few moments of real quality on the ball.

Substitutes

Steven Gerrard – 6/10

Far more effective in his natural position in the middle of midfield rather than stuck out on the left-wing.

His partnership with Lampard showed some promise - a good sign with Gareth Barry's fitness still in doubt.

Jamie Carragher – 6/10

Solid at the back but much less of an attacking threat than Johnson.

Joe Cole – 6/10

Tried too many fancy tricks but looked confident out wide and just behind the striker. Put in the cross which led to the equaliser.

Shaun Wright-Phillips – 5/10

Made one brilliant run from the left of midfield but failed to influence the game much during his 45 minute stint.

Joe Hart – 8/10

Excellent cameo from the Manchester City stopper as he made three great saves to deny the likes of Keisuke Honda.

Emile Heskey – 4/10

Somehow managed to miss a free header from less than six yards out - simply not good enough.

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Source: DSG