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England Ratings: Defence
Jordan Pickford (7/10):

Had very little to do during the other than take kick-outs and pick the ball out of his net after Iran’s goals. However, he did produce one excellent stop from Mehdi Torabi in the dying seconds.

Kieran Trippier (7/10): Always pushing forward and produced some decent deliveries. Solid showing. There will be no clamour for Trent Alexander-Arnold to start ahead of him.

John Stones (6/10): Under zero pressure for most of the game and was typically neat and tidy in possession. However, he did give away the late penalty converted by Taremi.

Harry Maguire (6/10): Caused chaos every time he ventured forward for a set-piece, popping up with an assist for Saka’s goal, but was caught napping by Taremi. Then forced off with a head injury.

Luke Shaw (8/10): Really enjoyed himself as he was able to effectively play as a wing-back. Produced a cracking cross for Bellingham’s goal.

Declan Rice England 2022Getty Images
Midfield
Jude Bellingham (8/10):

A class act. Only a kid but played as if he’s already been to four World Cups. Capped a composed display with a textbook header, proving he really does have everything in his locker.

Declan Rice (6/10):
Did exactly what was required of him, pilfering possession and passing the ball well, for the most part.

Raheem Sterling England 2022Getty Images
Attack
Bukayo Saka (9/10):

Two quality goals from a ridiculously exciting young player.

Mason Mount (6/10):

Went close a couple of times but didn’t get the goal or assist his endeavour deserved.

Raheem Sterling (8/10):

Looks like his old self, buzzing about the place, and getting back among the goals with a well-taken finish.

Harry Kane (7/10):

Didn’t actually get many chances, which will have been frustrating for him, but he’s such an all-round talent that he still contributed to a resounding win, creating two goals.

Gareth Southgate England 2022Getty Images
Subs & Manager
Eric Dier (6/10):

Came on for Maguire and had little to do.

Marcus Rashford (8/10):

What an impact! Scored just seconds after replacing Saka and was a constant threat in the final quarter.

Phil Foden (6/10):

Some unsurprisingly neat touches but didn’t have enough time to make his presence felt.

Jack Grealish (7/10):

Came on for Sterling and rounded off the scoring with the simplest of finishes.

Callum Wilson (7/10):

Could have gone himself after being put through let on but instead unselfishly left Grealish with a tap-in.

Gareth Southgate (8/10):

Context is key here, obviously. The quality of the opposition wasn’t great. But Southgate got all his big calls correct.