Five-star show from England’s Yorkshire contingent

Five Yorkshire-born players featured in England’s 2-0 win against Costa Rica at Elland Road.

Here, FP assesses their contribution in the Three Lions’ last match before the World Cup gets under way in Russia next week.

Danny Rose (born in Doncaster, age 27)

Rose put his revelations this week about his battle against depression behind him to turn in an impressive display in the left wing-back role. The Tottenham defender burst forward at every opportunity, helped England keep their shape and was a constant threat, particularly in the first half as the Three Lions dominated.

John Stones (born in Barnsley, age 24)

Stones started in the middle of Gareth Southgate’s preferred back three between Harry Maguire and Phil Jones and was only troubled once in an assured display before being replaced by Gary Cahill in the 65th minute. The former Barnsley and Everton defender, otherwise unflustered, was momentarily caught out of position after a foray forward in the first half to allow Costa Rica space on the edge of the penalty area, but the Central Americans failed to capitalise.

Harry Maguire (born in Sheffield, age 25)

Maguire played on the left of Stones and pressed his claims for a starting place against Tunisia with a composed, confident performance throughout the 90 minutes. The Leicester defender was not put under any pressure by a disappointing Costa Rica side, but did nothing wrong and always found his man when carrying the ball out of defence.

Fabian Delph (born in Bradford, age 28)

Delph picked up where he left off for champions Manchester City with a busy, versatile display that more than justifies his inclusion in Southgate’s squad. The former Leeds and Aston Villa man linked well with Rose on the left side of midfield in the first half and looked equally as comfortable when asked to play in the holding role following a series of substitutions later in the game.

Jamie Vardy (born in Sheffield, age 31)

Despite England’s dominance Vardy had just one half-chance, in the first half, when the ball took an age to come down after bouncing to him in front of goal and Costa Rica goalkeeper Navas bravely smothered the Leicester striker’s shot. Vardy was watched like a hawk by the Costa Rica defence and although he looked sharp enough before making way for Danny Welbeck in the 61st minute, he played second fiddle to Marcus Rashford, who was England’s standout player on the night.

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Football Paradise Staff Reporter

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