How England Rated: Parker, Lescott and Jagielka All Shine

Joe Hart

An increasingly important and reassuring figure in the England setup these days but despite Spain's domination of possession, he made only one save of note against Cesc Fabregas in the final minute. 6

Glen Johnson

A poor defensive header allowed David Villa to unleash a superb half-volley against the post, but that aside, he was solid throughout and linked well with Theo Walcott on the rare times he got forward. 6

Phil Jagielka

A fine display in the heart of Fabio Capello's defence despite carrying a toe injury. There was a series of interceptions and well times blocks, and his partnership with Joleon Lescott was the foundations of England's success. 7

Joleon Lescott

By far his most assured display in an England jersey to date, his partnership with his former Everton teammate Jagielka was authoritative, disciplined and at times courageous. 7

Ashley Cole

The world's best left-back shackled the ghostly David Silva which is no mean feat given the mercurial playmaker's Premier League form. Perhaps the only Englishman on display last night who could claim to be worthy of a place in Vicente Del Bosque's lavishly gifted squad. 7

Theo Walcott

England's attacks were few and far between but his pace remained a threat. The Arsenal winger was very disciplined in defence, helping Glen Johnson out numerous occasions. 6

Phil Jones

The unflappable youngster had the unenviable job of trying to disrupt the 'passing carousel' that is Xavi and Iniesta's , and he diligently stuck to his task. His versatility is a clear asset but Fabio Capello may have been better served seeing him in his preferred centre-back position. 6

Scott Parker

Tottenham Hotspur's best player this season is fast emerging as one of England's most reliable performers and he was Fabio Capello's finest player on Saturday night. Timely interceptions, robust tackling and neat and tidy in possession, Parker successfully managed to disrupt Spain's passing on a night Vicente Del Bosque's side were admittedly below their best. 8 (Man of the Match)

Frank Lampard

On the eve of the match he suggested being named stand-in captain was "the proudest moment in my England career", and in scoring the winner in what was his 90<sup>th cap, one would hope some of his recent detractors will now think twice before writing off the Chelsea talisman. 7

James Milner

Supplied the cross that led to the game's only goal, Milner was industrious and very disciplined when called upon to help Ashley Cole defend down the left-hand side. The Manchester City midfielder worked tirelessly throughout but one of his greatest assets is his ability to adhere to his team's instructions. One of England's most selfless performers. 7

Darren Bent

Was unfortunate not to score from his towering header that led to Lampard's simple finish, but he was too often left isolated up front on his own, as England's midfield dropped deeper and deeper when Spain were in the ascendency. 5

Substitutes

Stewart Downing (for Walcott, 45 min)

Struggled to impose himself on the game, but like Walcott, he was responsible when out possession. 5

Jack Rodwell (for Jones, 57 min)

Looked composed on debut and his lovely swift exchange with Danny Welbeck nearly resulted in a goal. 6

Gareth Barry (for Lampard, 57)

Looks to be fighting a losing battle with Scott Parker to play the holding role for England at next summer's European Championships, but he was disciplined and composed and remains a useful squad player. 5

Danny Welbeck (for Bent, 64)

A more willing runner of the channels than Bent and his pace troubled Gerard Pique in the latter stages of the match. Will be hoping to start Tuesday's game against Sweden in order to further enhance his claims for a place at next summer's tournament in Poland and the Ukraine. 6

Adam Johnson (for Milner, 76)

Not enough time to impose himself on proceedings but like all of England's wide players on the night he was very aware of his defensive duties. 5

Kyle Walker (for Johnson, 84)

A fleeting debut but is likely to start on Tuesday. 5

Capello Reaction:

"For me, the most important thing you saw this evening is the performance of Rodwell when he played, the performance of Jones, the performance of Welbeck. These are really good young players. Also Walker when he played.

"These players will be very important for the next Euros because you saw they played without fear and with personality on the pitch. Physically and technically I can see they are good to play with the seniors.

"Against Spain it is very difficult because the quality of Spain is fantastic so it is very important when you beat the world champions.

"This evening the two centre-backs played fantastic games," said the Italian. "They were really good. Every time Spain tried to play through they were in good positions. They played with good confidence. If you play without confidence against Spain it is impossible to get a good result.

"Parker, it was an incredible performance. He is improving every game. He is a really good player. He is an important player in front of the back four."

Speaking about England's next game, on Tuesday against Sweden, Capello added: "John Terry and [Gary] Cahill will play against Sweden,

"Not only those two, but Walker will play right-back. Also [Daniel] Sturridge and maybe others. I need to note the value of the players when they play here at Wembley. It is a big test for the players at Wembley."