David James

In truth the Manchester City ‘keeper didn’t have too much to do as, after a very even first quarter of the game, England dictated the pattern of the play. The only shots from Ukraine went sailing over the bar. The one effort which was on target was made harder to save by the slippery surface.

Gary Neville

The United right-back is one of the most experienced members of this England squad and for most of the first half, he looked to be in control of the Ukrainian advances. There was one moment when he allowed Shevchenko a bit too much time and space to deliver a cross but other than that was calmness itself.

Ashley Cole

The Arsenal left-back often says he doesn’t reproduce his club form for England but he disproved that theory with some great performances in Portugal and whilst he didn’t have the likes of Ronaldo to put up with, Cole did well with anything that was asked of him.

John Terry

The obvious highlight of Terry’s match was the cross he supplied for Beckham to slide in and score but as well as that he played well in defence. It would have been an important experience playing alongside Ledley King as that looks likely to be England’s centre-back pairing for the World Cup qualifiers next month.

Ledley King

Another important match for King, getting in more valuable international experience which he will need as England look ahead to games against Austria and Poland in September. Looked assured at the back and was comfortable playing against Andriy Shevchenko, one of the best strikers in European football.

Steven Gerrard

The Liverpool man is one of England’s most consistent performers and once again he was commanding on the left of midfield, refusing to allow the Ukrainian midfield to settle into their passing rhythm. A couple of tackles he made whilst lying flat on the ground showed his commitment to the cause.

Nicky Butt

Sven-Goran Eriksson knows just how important Butt is to England and the Newcastle United midfielder was his usual self in the centre of midfield, breaking up any flowing moves he visitors managed to put together.

Frank Lampard

One of England’s stars of Euro 2004, Lampard’s energy in midfield is a highly valuable asset and his industry was key to England’s forward play as well as proving to be vital in covering the defence. One or two half-chances of a shot but other than that didn’t have too many opportunities to shine in and around the box.

David Beckham

A goal and an assist on a successful night for the England captain. Did really well to slide in and convert Terry’s cross for England’s opening goal and then knocked over a good cross – with his left foot - of his own for Owen’s second-half header. Overall was one of the Three Lions’ best players on a rainy night in Newcastle.

Alan Smith

A quiet game for Smith, making only his third start for England. The Manchester United new boy had little service but still did well to hold to ball up and feed the ball into wide areas. As usual he made himself busy in and around the box and often he was happy to drop deep to connect play.

Michael Owen

Took his goal well in a move that could well be replicated many times this season in the colours of both England and Real Madrid. Beckham’s cross was perfect for the no.10 and his firm header was impossible for Shovkovskiyy to save.

Substitutes

Jamie Carragher

Some really good stuff from Carragher who looked very comfortable in possession and passed the ball around with style.

Jermaine Jenas

A popular substitution when he came on midway through the second half. The Newcastle midfielder has lots of potential and would have been glad to get some more experience under his belt. Exchanged some intelligent passes with Beckham and spread the play well.

Shaun Wright-Phillips

A hugely successful debut for the young Manchester City winger – so often one hopes to see promising club form translated onto the international stage and Wright-Phillips did just that with his wonderful goal – a solo run, a little bit of trickery and then a firm shot into the corner. Marvellous stuff.

Glen Johnson

One buccaneering run late on nearly saw the Chelsea youngster score – weaving past a couple of defenders his cross-cum-shot looped just over the bar. Dealt well with the defensive duties he was given.

Jermain Defoe

Tottenham’s livewire striker showed once again why so many commentators of the game believe he has the necessary qualities to go a long way in the game. He was quick on the turn, held the ball up with aplomb and had a couple of fierce shots that were well saved. Will have been disappointed not to have scored form the one golden chance that fell his way but overall will be pleased with his showing.

Kieron Dyer

Afforded plenty of space out on the left of England’s midfield, Dyer gave the Ukrainian defenders plenty to think about as he used the full width of the pitch as well as cutting infield. Had one chance to shoot from just outside the area but he decided to pass wide instead.