RW- Raheem Sterling 6
The winger had a golden opportunity to put England ahead in the first three minutes. However, he chipped over from close range when really he should have done much better. He demonstrated some of his ability with another early chance, as he danced around the defenders before firing a shot from the edge of the area, which was sent wide thanks to a deflection. He took a lot of strong challenges from the Slovenians which dampened his impact in the second half.
ST- Wayne Rooney 7
Played an excellent ball in for Sterling’s chance early on, and linked up with the same player ten minutes later when a well-weighted pass with the outside of his boot gave the winger an opening. His left-foot strike after 20 minutes forced a great save from Samir Handanovic. In the second half, he squandered a couple of great chances that he should have buried, but he saved himself by bagging the winner.
LW- Andros Townsend 5
Having been arguably the most contentious selection in the squad, it was imperative that Townsend played well. However, his delivery from set pieces seemed extremely sub-standard, and his overall impact on the game was not good enough to vindicate Hodgson’s decision to include him.
Subs
Adam Lallana 8
England were a completely different side once the Liverpool man came on. He played a key role in both of Wilshere’s goals, including a lovely touch for the second. His performance proved that he should have been playing from the start.
Theo Walcott 7
Injected some much needed energy into the game, having replaced a very lacklustre Townsend. Like Lallana, he would have been very disappointed not to start the game.
Nathaniel Clyne N/A
Came on late to sure up the defence.
