Green set to be given England gloves after Mexico display

Pundits claim England’s match with Mexico asked as many questions as it answered but that platitude belies the fact that some of Capello’s decisions now seem clearer. Here’s how the match affects the side.

Rob Green
The big winner from last night’s match. Pulled off two superb saves when one on one and looked assured throughout. Looks set to be England’s number one in South Africa.

Glenn Johnson
Cemented his right-back spot with a competent defensive display. He demonstrated his attacking potential with a sublime goal, which could be a real bonus in tight games.

Peter Crouch
Didn’t do much apart from score an offside goal with his arm, but score a goal he did. It’s a knack we’ve become accustomed to and such is its regularity Crouch could pip Heskey for starting place.

Michael Carrick
Started in Gareth Barry’s holding role and didn’t do himself many favours by giving the ball away too easily. Club form seems to have shaken him and looks doubtful for first XI.

Ledley King
Scored a dream goal on his return but looked sluggish on a couple of occasions, notably when being undone by Giovani dos Santos. Should be first-choice understudy at centre-back.

Jamie Carragher
Surprisingly came on in his preferred central defensive position at half time. Seems assured of a place on the plane and may even have jumped above Matthew Upson.

Joe Hart
Got the 45 minutes Fabio Capello had promised him and looked composed by claiming crosses well and always trying to distribute early. Could move ahead of James.

Leighton Baines
Will go to South Africa as Ashley Cole’s deputy but the way Mexico persistently threatened down his flank will be a worry. Offered little going forward and fired his free-kick into the wall.

And three conspicuous by their absence:

Shaun Wright-Philips
Difficult to see how he gets above Walcott or Lennon so a missed cut beckons.

Michael Dawson
The fact Carragher came on in central defence suggests no spot for Spurs man.

Scott Parker
Four players other than Parker played in central midfield and, with Frank Lampard to return, the future looks dim for West Ham’s star.

Does England’s win make you sure they’ll go all the way? They are 6/1 to win the tournament. Or does the way England conceded possession and territory make you think they’re in for a rude awakening? They’re 8/1 to go out at the group stage.