How England's players rated

Matt Hughes13 April 2012

We analyse the performances of England's starting line-up after today's tense draw against Nigeria.

David Seaman
Made his first mistake of the tournament, failing to hold an Okocha free-kick, but recovered well to make a good save from Akwuegbu in the 36th minute. 6 out of 10

Danny Mills
Given an early scare by Udeze down the left but a threat going forward. Overlapped well with Beckham and created a half-chance for Heskey with a right-wing cross. 7 out of 10

Rio Ferdinand
Another commanding performance, making two crucial tackles in the area to rescue Cole and deny Aghahowa in the second half. Just gets better and better. 8 out of 10

Sol Campbell
Called upon to cover a rare slip from central-defensive partner Ferdinand but otherwise untroubled. Strong in the air and his distribution was much improved. 6 out of 10

Ashley Cole
Slack marking presented Aghahowa and Akwuegbu with opportunities but was much better going forward. Created a chance for Sheringham and hit the bar from out wide. 6 out of 10

David Beckham
Little inspiration from the captain, but his fitness is improving. Fell in to the trap of playing too deep alongside Butt. Mills was often in a more advanced position. 6 out of 10

Paul Scholes
Neat and tidy passing but his involvement was only fleeting. Nearly gave England the lead with a 30-yard drive which Enyeama tipped onto the post. 6 out of 10

Nicky Butt
Passing from deep impressed again, finding Mills and Beckham in space down the right. But didn't dominate as against Argentina. Played too far apart from Scholes. 7 out of 10

Trevor Sinclair
Showed willingness, roaming to the right flank in search of the ball, but rarely found it. One good run was ruined by carelessly blasting over the bar. 6 out of 10

Emile Heskey
Dominant in the air, and showed sharpness on the ground to force a save from Enyeama after a Mills's cross. Never looked like scoring, though and made way for Sheringham. 6 out of 10

Michael Owen
England's likeliest source of goals but lacked support and service. Created his best chance out of nothing, running at three defenders before being closed down in the area. 7 out of 10

What the experts said...
How the action unfolded
Pete Clark's armchair view
England v Nigeria - in pictures

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