Rating the LFC players competing during England 0-0 Slovakia; surprising first choice

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England drew 0-0 with Slovakia last night, but five Liverpool players took the field – to various effect.

Here’s how we ranked their performances…

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5) Jordan Henderson

Nowhere near as bad as many fans made out last night, Henderson, for some reason, became a whipping boy for frustrated supporters looking for someone to blame. In fact, he worked hard and offered himself defensively and offensively. Our lack of clinical finishing wasn’t his fault and if a striker had taken a chance Henderson would have been praised for providing a solid base behind – but that’s football.

4) Nathaniel Clyne

Kyle Walker’s been world-class in his opening two performances, so Clyne had some act to follow – but largely showed why he’s unlucky not to be in the first choice starting XI. He regularly made telling runs down the right, although his deliveries were inconsistent. Burst into the box in the second-half and forced the keeper into a top save, although some wanted him to go down and win us a penalty.

3) Daniel Sturridge

Couldn’t provide a clinical, cutting edge, but was lively enough to suggest he’s worthy of a place in the team from here on in. For England, Sturridge is playing much deeper than usual, and he saw a lot of possession. Sometimes he keeps on to it for too long, but his ability to skip past an opponent and take them out of the game was on show. Had a chance late on, but couldn’t finish and was hauled off for the ineffective Harry Kane.

2) Adam Lallana

Lallana has possibly been England’s best player during the Euros. He works harder than anyone, creates chances, gets in good positions – and would currently be lauded with the players of the tournament if he could finish his chances. Against Slovakia, Lallana had two golden opportunities but shot too centrally. England though were a less effective outfit when he was pulled off the park. His place in the side in the Last 16 is certain.

1) Martin Skrtel

In fairness, Skrtel, surplus to requirements at Anfield, had an absolute stormer. It was a backs to the wall defensive performance where he was allowed to sit deep and focus solely on stopping England score – and it suited him perfectly. Skrtel made countless blocks, tackles and positioned him perfectly – hopefully putting a few millions on his price-tag in the process!

More Stories Adam Lallana Daniel Sturridge Jordan Henderson Martin Skrtel Nathaniel Clyne