Defenders
2. Glen Johnson – 5
Not a great showing from the Liverpool right-back, who although set up the goal in the defeat to the Uruguayans was generally ineffective in both attack and in particular defence.
3. Leighton Baines – 5
Having waited for so long for a chance at an international tournament, the Everton left-back did little to prove he was the natural successor to stalwart Ashley Cole and the position is still up for grabs.
5. Gary Cahill – 6
The only top-class centre-back available to the nation and the Chelsea enforcer needs to start bringing more of his club form to the international stage.
6. Phil Jagielka – 5
Looked a little out of his depth up against world-class forwards and at 31-years-old is hardly going to be the long-term future for the English either.
12. Chris Smalling – 7
Despite having perhaps the worst reputation of the all the defensive players in the squad, when given the chance against the Costa Ricans the Manchester United ace played his heart out.
16. Phil Jones – 5
Filled in at right-back for the final match of Group D and despite his obvious athleticism, the 22-year-old looked shaky and more ineffectual than Johnson.
23. Luke Shaw – 6
The youngster of the group who had earned his place ahead of Cole and played with maturity and confidence when given the chance – a good showing for the 18-year-old.
COMMENTS