Goals from Declan Rice and Jack Grealish saw England to a comfortable 2-0 win over Republic of Ireland in Lee Carsley’s first game in interim charge.
Both Rice and Grealish were booed throughout, having represented Ireland early in their careers before committing to the Three Lions, but responded with first-half strikes.
Carsley, who has been handed the job for now at least as the FA continue their search for a permanent successor to Gareth Southgate, named an attacking side and was rewarded with three points to start England’s latest Nations League campaign.
Here’s how Carsley’s side rated in Dublin...
Jordan Pickford 6
Distribution was largely excellent. Made a smart save from Szmodics.
Trent Alexander-Arnold 7
Returned to his most familiar position but still ran the game in the first-half. Range of passing was stunning, including deep ball that led to opener. One lapse in the second-half went unpunished.
Harry Maguire 6
Back after missing the Euros and talked up for his leadership qualities. Not exactly a busy man on the defensive front, but made his presence felt at attacking set-pieces.
Marc Guehi 7
Used the ball well in the face of what began as an energetic Irish press. Got better as the game went on. Anticipates so well.
Levi Colwill 6
Has started the season superbly at centre-back for Chelsea and had no issues shuffling to left-back here. Booked.
Declan Rice 8
Scored one goal, made the second and was generally superb in a box-to-box role. Rose to a hostile challenge.
Kobbie Mainoo 6
A little casual early on but some of his passing between the lines was excellent. Booked.
Bukayo Saka 7
Much of England’s best play came down the opposite flank, but still had an impact, combining with Rice to make Grealish goal.
Jack Grealish 8
Like watching a player reborn. Scored the second goal and thrived in a central role. Carries the ball so well.
You couldn't write this...
— ITV Football (@itvfootball) September 7, 2024
Declan Rice finds Jack Grealish who scores for England against the Republic of Ireland 🏴🇮🇪#IREvENG pic.twitter.com/6nRvwuxMfX
Another with a point to prove and his pace was such an outlet. Could easily have had a goal and an assist.
Harry Kane 6
Headed over early on and had a couple of other half-chances, but appeared to enjoy the dynamism around him.
Substitutes
Morgan Gibbs-White (Grealish 77’) 6
Sent on as one of two late debutants.
Angel Gomes (Mainoo 77’) 6
The surprise pick brought some calm to midfield just as Ireland were enjoying their best spell.
Eberechi Eze (Gordon 78’) 6
John Stones (Maguire 85’) N/A
Jarrod Bowen (Kane 84’) N/A
Unused: Henderson, Pope, Lewis, Konsa, Livramento, Gallagher, Madueke
