JOE HART: Looked relatively steady throughout. Could do little about either goal. Six out of 10.

GLEN JOHNSON: Same old story - good going forward, weak at the back. 5.

PHIL JAGIELKA: Cleared Balotelli's effort of the line and generally played ok. 6.

GARY CAHILL: Lost Balotelli for Italy's crucial second goal. 5.

LEIGHTON BAINES: Was given the run around all night by Antonio Candreva. 5.

JORDAN HENDERSON: Controlled the game well with his passing. Looked calm on the ball. 7.

STEVEN GERRARD: Kept the game ticking over, but did not produce anything magical. 6.

RAHEEM STERLING: England's best performer. Even had the Italians clapping him by the end of the game. Skills and pace a real asset. 8.

WAYNE ROONEY: Set up Sturridge, but did not do what he is paid to do - score goals. Two good chances. 5.

DANNY WELBECK: Full of energy and life throughout. Justified his starting place. 7.

DANIEL STURRIDGE: Took his goal well and was a threat all night. 7.

Substitutes:

ROSS BARKLEY (on for Welbeck, 60mins): Exuded confidence and tested Sirigu. Will be pushing Rooney for a start against Uruguay. 7.

JACK WILSHERE (on for Henderson, 72 mins): Drifted in and out of the game. 5.

ADAM LALLANA (on for Sturridge, 79mins): Could not turn the game in England's favour. 5.

ends