England v Croatia: Leicester City player ratings and analysis

Leicester City’s Ben Chilwell made his full debut for England Friday. Joined by Harry Maguire. James Maddison was on the bench: how did they do?

It was a well watched televised debut, contrasted by an virtually empty stadium for Leicester City’s Ben Chilwell’s and England. Croatia are serving a ban for racism based events. Besides the strange atmosphere, the Three Lions trialled a 4-3-3 for our viewing pleasure.

Harry Maguire joined the left-back in the starting line-up. James Maddison sadly, and unpredictably, did not feature from the bench. This is questionably odd, as Gareth Southgate only made one substitution.

Croatia and England sat joint last of League A Group Four, following the two’s defeats by the impressive Spain.

First-half assessment

An eerie ambiance filled – or unfilled – the Croatian stadium. A blend of emptiness and no escaping review from the likes of Foxes of Leicester. Both sides had their moments in a dull, but deceiving night’s football. Lots of huffing and puffing, yet, quality and calibre evaded the teams. 0-0.

Second-half report

Sky Sports‘ Alan Smith said of the initial period:

"“It’s got all the hallmarks of a nil-nil; if that!”"

Marcus Rashford missed two easy chances to put the Three Lions ahead. England imposed themselves on the Croatians more as the match wore on.

Later, the Three Lions found themselves on the back-foot as the World Cup finalists made strides into the England box. In all honesty, the most inspiring moment of the second-half was seeing the loyal traveling English watching from a hillside; expectant of an almost comedy police chase. Full-time score, 0-0.

Ratings:

Ben Chilwell: 7.5

Chilwell provides excellent width and an attacking options from left-back. He got forward early, extremely high up the pitch. Although his touch lacked once at the beginning, when he could have controlled and attacked in the Croat half. This happened twice in the first-half.

Now and again the full-back is caught forward as the opposition break; something to be cautious of in future. In addition, blocking his man’s cross in essential from anywhere.

Leicester City’s defender’s anticipation is first-class. Providing the most dangerously appearing play, through 25 minutes. It is apparent Chilwell will seriously challenge Danny Rose, Luke Shaw et al for the place. Set-pieces are also part of the 21-year-old’s repertoire; as showcased in this clash. An unfazed, though improvable start.

Second-half, Chilwell began with a loose pass in an awkward an non-pressured situation. Leading to a Luka Modric cross; luckily Jordan Pickford dealt with the ball.

Subsequently, he was drawn out of position immaturely. However, impetus and effort are ready in abundance. Now part of a wing-back system, an attempt to utilise Chilwell’s menace in a productive more advanced role begins.

Previously, there were questions about the left-back’s physicality – alas, no more – he is strong and swift into the challenge. Reading of the game is also efficient for the Leicester City starlet.

Unfortunately, he was not given the ball in decent positions on occasion, by Rashford and Ross Barkley. Maguire’s tranquil play has suitably influenced his friend. A confident debut. One cannot criticise a player for allowing Modric to get the better of them once or twice.

Harry Maguire: 8

Maguire looked energetic and composed throughout. Reading a dangerous Croatian move with apparent ease at the beginning. Then floating a beautiful pass to his defensive Leicester City teammate. The centre-back made an aggressive, poorly timed slide-tackle in the initial part of the game; avoiding a caution, while letting his opponent know he is there.

Dogged, is a way to describe Maguire; with obvious quality. Never rushed, unless necessarily so. Calmness personified – when the Three Lions cult hero slows down the game on the ball comfortably.

Former Fox Andrej Kramaric didn’t get much change from his marshalling by Maguire. While the 6-foot-four defender is a constant threat and committed nuisance at dead-ball opportunities. Headed clearances were immaculately dealt with.

In the last half, Maguire failed to clear at an easy opportunity, this could lead to further peril if not addressed sufficiently. Chilwell’s impressively crossed free-kick almost finds his teammate again for a chance at goal. A good combination witnessed between the duo.

A clever centre-back, whom often evades a player with ease and class. Evidently so, as Maguire had the most touches of both teams’ competitors.

James Maddison: n/a

Spain entertain Southgate’s side Monday in the Nations League, at the Estadio Benito Villamarin in Seville. Kick-off is 7:45pm BST.