Jack Grealish and Declan Rice may have grown up playing for Ireland but there is no question where their loyalties lie now after leading England to a comfortable win in Dublin
Rice smashed an impressive England into the lead to get interim coach Lee Carsley – who represented Ireland 40 times as a player – off to a fine start in his quest to become Gareth Southgate’s permanent successor. The Arsenal midfielder then set up the second goal for Grealish which was an exhibition of slick passing.
England let their foot off the gas in the second half but always looked comfortable and began their UEFA Nations League campaign in style.
GOAL rates England’s players from the Aviva Stadium…
Goalkeeper & Defence
Jordan Pickford (6/10):
Only had to make one save, an easy parry to deny Sammie Szcmodics. Played more short passes than usual.
Trent Alexander-Arnold (5/10):
Played a superb pass to Gordon for the first goal but his passing was generally poor and he later gave it away in his own area.
Harry Maguire (6/10):
Protected the ball well in possession, his passing was hit and miss.
Marc Guehi (8/10):
Technically excellent and physically unbeatable. Picking up where he left off after the Euros.
Levi Colwill (6/10):
A comfortable competitive debut. Handled the exciting Chiedozie Ogbene well.
