Switzerland 1 England 3: Player Ratings

08 September 2010 10:28
Football.co.uk runs a rule over the England players, following their European Championship qualifying victory in Basle.

Capello hails Rooney focus / The Libero on Rooney's display / England v Switzerland match report

Joe Hart - 6/10

Calm and composed for much of the game but showed first signs of the jitters in an England shirt with a series of second half fumbles. Stood no chance against Xherdan Shaqiri's fierce strike.

Glen Johnson - 7

Full of attacking intent as ever and played an instrumental role in England's opening goal. Linked well with his namesake, Adam, after Theo Walcott's premature exit and threatened the Swiss goal with a powerful left foot drive.

Ashley Cole - 6

Yet another impressive display from one of England's most consistent performers. Failed to track Shakiri as he drifted inside for the goal but otherwise in control.

Phil Jagielka - 7

In the absence of a seasoned international centre back, the Everton man took full responsibility for the marshalling of the defensive line while carrying out his basic duties with aplomb.

Joleon Lescott - 6

A surprise choice from Fabio Capello in the absence of the injured Michael Dawson. Naturally left footed, the Manchester City defender provided a welcome degree of balance to the back line and provided natural cover for the rampaging Ashley Cole when required.

Theo Walcott - 5

Showed early glimpses of his attacking threat but was unfortunate to suffer a match ending ankle injury in the build up to the opening goal and departed on a stretcher before heading to hospital.

Steven Gerrard - 7

A quiet but very effective display from the England captain who looks at home roaming the middle of the park. At the root of most England attacks and was faultless in possession.

Gareth Barry - 7

Timely with a series of crucial interceptions and tenacious in the tackle, Barry once again proved to be the vital cog in Capello's England machine. Works well alongside Gerrard and provides stability allowing the more attacking players around him to prosper.

James Milner - 6

Another tireless display from the Manchester City midfielder whose industry was invaluable on the night. Dangerous in attack and disciplined in defence but reckless in the tackle. Received his second booking of the campaign and will miss the next game.

Jermain Defoe - 6

Not given the wealth of chances he received against Bulgaria but impressed with his pace and ability to drag defenders across the pitch. Always hungry for goals and perhaps deserved one but was withdrawn due to injury in the second half.

Wayne Rooney - 7

Provided the perfect repost to those who questioned his mental state, after the recent alleged off field antics, with the opening goal. His first international strike in almost a year was warmly welcomed and ensures he makes the headlines for the right reasons this morning.

Substitutes

Adam Johnson - 7

Knocking on the first team door ahead of the game, Johnson got his chance earlier than he could have expected after Walcott's departure and again proved his international credentials. Elusive, tricky and converted his chance with supreme confidence.

Shaun Wright-Phillips - 5

Provided a useful outlet in the latter stages as the Swiss defence tired but failed to pick out fellow substitute Darren Bent with the goal gaping.

Darren Bent - 6

Looked determined to make his mark when thrown on as Defoe's replacement and did so with an emphatic finish for his first international goal.

Source: DSG