England player ratings

Michael Owen set England on their way to victory

BBC Sport Online's football editor, Howard Nurse, scrutinises England's players during the 3-1 win in Albania.

David Seaman

Sound. A deflected free-kick from Vata almost caught him out before he gathered the ball. Had little to do throughout the game.

Gary Neville

Impressive. Sent over a number of dangerous crosses from the right and was involved in starting the move which led to England's opener. One of his best displays.

Rio Ferdinand

Below par at times and let down by poor distribution. At fault for Albania's goal, the second game running that the Leeds star was found wanting.

Sol Campbell (withdrawn 29 mins)

The Tottenham defender suffered a knock and was unable to run it off. Replaced inside half-an-hour by Wes Brown.

Ashley Cole

Settled any nerves with a nice early run into Albanian territory. Steady throughout on his international debut. Struck by something thrown from the crowd.

Nicky Butt

Solid and busy replacement for the injured Gerrard but unable to drive the game for England. Unfortunate not to win a second-half penalty.

David Beckham

Dangerous with his free-kicks in the first half as England looked to him for inspiration. Always in control and a quality player.

Paul Scholes

Quiet start but improved as the game progressed. His superb touch helped create England's opener and the midfield dynamo was on hand to score the second.

Steve McManaman (withdrawn 45 mins)

Had a quiet first half and was replaced at the break by Emile Heskey. Ineffective and hardly helped his bid to be an automatic choice ahead of Nick Barmby.

Andy Cole

On target at last! Deserved his first England strike after helping to create the second goal, but picked up a late yellow card which rules him out of the trip to Greece in June.

Michael Owen (withdrawn 83 mins)

Changed the mood of the game with the crucial opener. His burst of speed and cool finish nudged England ahead when they needed it most. Ten goals for his country now.

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England substitutes:

Wes Brown (29 mins)

Stepped into the breach in place of the injured Campbell and looked generally at ease, though there were one or two scares.

Emile Heskey (46 mins)

Soon in the thick of the action and only just failed to touch in a Paul Scholes cross. His physical presence helped England's cause when they needed it.

Teddy Sheringham (83 mins)

Came on late in the game for his 40th England cap to make it seven Manchester United players on the pitch by the end but no time to impress.