England Triumph: Kyle Walker's Stellar Performance Shines with Jordan Henderson Mastering Pre-match Pressure
England player ratings: Kyle Walker's stunning goal secures a 1-1 draw against Ukraine in the European Qualifier Jordan Henderson, amidst pre-match speculation, impresses in his first game since his controversial move to Saudi Arabia
Jordan Pickford - 6
Pickford's involvement in the game was limited, only facing a significant challenge from Oleksandr Zinchenko's well-executed strike which broke England's streak of not conceding a goal for five and a half hours.Kyle Walker - 8
An outstanding display by the right-back of Manchester City, highlighted by scoring his first goal for England. Impressive in his dribbling, exceptional in his ball control, and exemplary in his finish, especially when his team was facing intense pressure.In terms of defense, he completely dominated Mykhailo Mudryk. Walker consistently thwarted the highly valued Chelsea player in nearly every one-on-one encounter, displaying remarkable skill and determination. Moreover, he remained proactive when moving forward, contributing positively to his team's attacking plays.
By far and away England's best player of the evening.
Due to your consent preferences, you’re not able to view this.
Open Privacy Options
Ben Chilwell - 6
Had a strong start in an attacking position on the left, but faced difficulty when Ukraine overwhelmed the right wing leading up to their first goal. Subsequently, there were no remarkable moments or mistakes to account for.Harry Maguire - 6
The distribution by Maguire occasionally posed challenges for his teammates, and his lack of game time at club level was evident, particularly in the first half.Nevertheless, he posed a significant threat in the air for the English team during their determined pursuit of a victory in the second half. In the 51st minute, Maguire skillfully directed a header towards the top of the net, only for it to hit the roof. Then, twenty minutes later, he made another nodded attempt that was securely caught by Heorhiy Bushchan. Regrettably, he received a yellow card in the 86th minute for colliding with the goalkeeper, despite the incident being judged unduly severe.
Marc Guehi - 7
All in all, the Crystal Palace defender put on a commendable performance. He adeptly guided dangerous balls away when Ukraine dominated in the first half and justified his selection as Maguire's partner in the center of defense.Declan Rice - 6
However, he will face criticism for failing to closely mark his Arsenal teammate Zinchenko, resulting in Ukraine's opening goal. Moreover, he didn't quite exhibit his top form throughout the match. Rice has certainly had better appearances while wearing the England national team jersey.Jordan Henderson - 7
Image:
Jordan Henderson played his first England game since his move to Saudi Arabia
Henderson had an eventful week, marked by a strong performance in his first England game since his controversial transfer to Saudi Arabia. However, several mistakes were made in the lead-up to Ukraine's first goal, and he will face criticism for not properly marking his opponent, allowing the hosts to exploit England's defense.
Afterwards, though, Henderson appeared to be the frontrunner in terms of generating opportunities, continuously firing shots over the goal shortly thereafter. In addition, he exhibited his skill by delivering two exceptional crosses into the designated area within a span of 10 minutes during the second half, displaying minimal indication of the pressure he faced prior to the match.
Jude Bellingham - 7
Image:
Jude Bellingham's performance for England on Saturday evening fell short of his best.
Despite starting strongly in Poland, the new Real Madrid player lacked direction, relying on his captain to navigate through Ukraine's defensive tactics in the first half. Nevertheless, he managed a header soon after halftime, which called for a save from the Ukrainian goalkeeper.
James Maddison - 6
Despite a lackluster performance, there were still flashes of brilliance from the midfielder, who was replaced in the 65th minute. Despite making an impressive entrance into Tottenham, Maddison failed to replicate that form in Poland. His failure to track back on the left frequently left his former Leicester teammate, Chilwell, vulnerable, particularly during the opening goal.Booked in the 35th minute for a reckless tackle on Yukhym Konoplya and occasionally showing signs of overexertion, resulting in missed opportunities. While demonstrating determination, the player lacked the necessary finesse. Eventually substituted in the 65th minute.
Image:
James Maddison was booked in Wroclaw and did not bring his Tottenham form to England
Bukayo Saka - 6
England Men's Player of the Year got off to a promising start, making the first shot of the game in the 13th minute, although it was blocked. However, his impact was diminished after a forceful challenge from Everton's Vitalii Mykolenko.It wasn't until the 60th minute that he unleashed a powerful strike that hit the crossbar. After that, Saka's performance showed some signs of improvement, but in the 86th minute, he was substituted, seemingly still affected by the Mykolenko challenge.
Harry Kane - 7
Throughout the initial 40 minutes, the England captain assumed the role of a roving peacemaker rather than a striker. However, when his team required him most, Kane demonstrated his prowess yet again by delivering a marvelous pass that resulted in Walker's equalizing goal.In the 64th minute, he unleashed a shot that veered wide, and shortly after, his attempt at a dangerous cross was skillfully blocked. Nonetheless, Kane had a relatively subdued performance overall.
Substitutions
Marcus Rashford - 4
Image:
Phil Foden failed to grasp his chance for England
Phil Foden - 4
Incorporating the substitution for Maddison, he was fortunate not to concede a free-kick following a challenge on Mudryk. He managed to contribute by delivering a late free kick that resulted in a save by Bushchan. However, his impact on the match fell short of what both he and England had hoped for.Phil Foden - 4
Various instances of carelessness arose during Ukraine's possession after his arrival in place of Bellingham, without much noteworthy to mention. His performance did little to persuade Gareth Southgate that he should be a regular starter.Conor Gallagher - n/a
A late replacement for Saka.What's next?
Ukraine's next game is a Euro 2024 Qualifier against Italy at San Siro on Tuesday - kick-off 7.45pm.England now take on Scotland in a friendly at Hampden Park on Tuesday - kick-off 7.45pm.
