How the Lions roared
JORDAN PICKFORD (7) Getting the nod over Butland seems significant. No chance with the goal. Did everything else right.
KYLE WALKER (6) Chosen as a centre-back and used his athleticism to get out of tight spots. Slightly at fault for Nigeria’s goal.
JOHN STONES (5) Struggled recently at club level but Southgate’s key defender. Still has a tendency to overplay from the back.
GARY CAHILL (8) Feared he’d miss out on Russia but came on strong at the end of season to lift the FA Cup two weeks ago. Terrific header to start the scoreboard ticking.
KIERAN TRIPPIER (6) Walker’s move into the back three has opened up the prospect of a regular start. Fell away in the second half.
ERIC DIER (7) The only holding midfielder today and if Southgate risks that tactic in Russia, Dier is in pole position. Steady, alert.
DELE ALLI (6) Has something to prove after looking a shoo-in last season. Still has work to do to get back to previous levels. (DELPH 81, 5 – Did well in short time on)
JESSE LINGARD (6) Did little wrong before being subbed. (LOFTUS-CHEEK 67, 5 – Provided more solidity in midfield)
ASHLEY YOUNG (5) In the international wilderness for a long time but has a new lease of life. His set-piece delivery is a bonus. (ROSE 67, 5 – Gave Southgate the chance to see a left-footed wing-back on the left)
RAHEEM STERLING (5) Gun tattoo, late arrival at training now a yellow card for a blatant dive. Lively but wasteful. (RASHFORD 73, 4 – Missed with late header).
HARRY KANE (5) Officially captain at last. Led the line well and got his goal. ( WELBECK 73, 4 – Few chances to shine). Unused – Heaton, Pope, Butland, Maguire, Livermore, Vardy, Lallana.