How the England squad rated
By Jason Burt
Along with Croatia’s Sime Vrsaljko, he has been the best rightback/wing-back at the World Cup. He was also England’s most potent attacking weapon with set-pieces and scored his first international goal in the semi-final against Croatia. Scored a stunning goal against Panama and worked extremely hard. Maybe found wanting in the semi-final where he did not have the technical ability to compete against Luka Modric but he did set up Dele Alli for his goal against Sweden. Came into the World Cup with some doubts over whether he or Eric Dier would be the single midfield pivot. Was England’s second captain on the pitch and an influential presence who worked tirelessly and, largely, used the ball well. Undoubtedly makes a big difference with his pace and ability to run in behind and England were better for him in the team. But, maybe, needs a wider role and it is now 26 games without a goal which is not good enough. Misses too many chances. Showed flashes of the player he can be but never really got going and did not have the “big moment” England hoped he was due. He seemed to be hampered by a thigh injury sustained against Tunisia. Maybe still looking for his best role. Golden Boot winner but did not actually receive much service and seemed to struggle with a calf problem and fatigue as the tournament progressed. But he is a world-class striker, and led England well. Will be the side’s centre-forward for years.