Eurosport - Thu, 20 Nov 13:35:00 2008
A player-by-player guide to how we rated England's performance in their 2-1 friendly win over Germany in Berlin.
David James - 6/10
One of three Portsmouth players in the starting line-up, James looked more solid than usual although almost had one misunderstanding with John Terry early on. In truth he was not really tested by Germany, who England dominated in the first half. Replaced at the break by Scott Carson.
Glen Johnson - 7
An accomplished performance by the Pompey defender, who combined well with Shaun Wright-Phillips and had the better of Piotr Trochowski for much of the game. England are now as competitive as ever at right-back, with Wes Brown, Gary Neville and Micah Richards all vying for a starting spot.
Wayne Bridge - 7
Mr Dependable has shown that what was once a problem position for England is now covered by two top-class players. While he lacks Ashley Cole's searing pace, he is no slouch and his crossing is superior.
John Terry - 7
Aside from the uncharacteristic error for Germany's goal, Terry was imperious as ever, winning headers, tackles and interceptions and scoring the winning goal with a trademark finish. Would have been man of the match were it not for the moment of madness.
Matthew Upson - 8
England have an embarrassment of riches at centre-half, and Upson has surely risen to undisputed third-choice behind Terry and Rio Ferdinand after an excellent performance. Mature and composed, he made Miroslav Klose look average.
Shaun Wright-Phillips - 8
'Sweepy' has been reborn since returning to Manchester City and the fleet-footed winger was a constant menace to debutant left-back Marvin Compper. He ran at players, cut inside and shot from whatever distance seemed fit. Hit the woodwork with a superb solo run and shot in the second half. The blow of Theo Walcott's injury has been softened somewhat.
Stewart Downing - 8
A surprise choice to start but Downing did not disappoint and, by the end of the game, looked a world-class player. His crossing was almost perfect, he ran at players, did his fair share of defensive duties and got two assists. Eurosport-Yahoo! man of the match.
Michael Carrick - 7
Unflustered and tidy, Carrick kept things ticking over as England played the possession game they have for so long been deemed incapable of managing. Neat with his passing and crisp in the tackle, he showed why he has been an integral part of Manchester United's domestic and European dominance.
Gareth Barry - 7
In a slightly deeper role than accustomed to at Aston Villa, Barry continues to establish himself as first-choice in Fabio Capello's midfield. Almost interchangeable with Carrick, he was head and shoulders above Germany counterparts Simon Rolfes and Jermaine Jones.
Enthusiastic and industrious, his pace gave Heiko Westermann and Per Mertesacker a torrid time. He ran the channels, held the ball up, produced some clever flicks and was unlucky to have a goal disallowed.
Jermain Defoe - 6
Good movement and first touch in his run-out. The Portsmouth striker worked well with Agbonlahor but failed to test Adler and came off injured at the break.
Substitutes:
Scott Carson - 6
Terry took the blame for the goal but Carson was hesitant and could have come quicker to clear. Compensated for it with an otherwise solid performance and one great stop from Marko Marin.
Darren Bent - 5
Ran around and chased everything in his 45-minute spell but missed a sitter and does not look confident at the highest level.
Ashley Young - N/A
Did not have enough time to shine in a brief cameo at the end, but the Aston Villa wide man took the ball into the corners and set up a Wright-Phillips chance with a clever flick.
Comment 1 - 2 of 22
To whoever wrote this article: DID YOU EVEN WATCH THE GAME?
This is a joke. SWP is a Man City player if you hadn't noticed. Plus your ratings are not accurate. Michael Carrick was sensational he deserves at least a 8 or even a 9. Glen Johnson was so comfortable, should get a 8. Downing was my favourite. He crossed for both goals. And 7 does not do him justice. Come on people!!!
Get your stuff right!!!!!!!!!!!
doesnt 'Sweepy' now play for Man City?
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