England: Backup brigade burn bright in final tune-up before World Cup

LEEDS, ENGLAND - JUNE 07: Marcus Rashford of England celebrates with team mates after scoring the opening goal during the International friendly match between England and Costa Rica at Elland Road on June 7, 2018 in Leeds, England. (Photo by Alex Livesey/Getty Images)
LEEDS, ENGLAND - JUNE 07: Marcus Rashford of England celebrates with team mates after scoring the opening goal during the International friendly match between England and Costa Rica at Elland Road on June 7, 2018 in Leeds, England. (Photo by Alex Livesey/Getty Images) /
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Danny Rose

The young left-back missed the majority of this season through injury, but due to his previously demonstrated quality for Tottenham has still been called up to the Three Lions.

Being played in this game shows that he was at least second, possibly even the third choice to start at left back. But his performance stood out, even in a team where everyone played well.

His return to fitness is good for England and good for the Premier League.

Personally, I’d still prefer (just) Fabian Delph over him for the start. Delph has had a lot of minutes on a side with a winning mentality and that could be invaluable momentum to take into the tournament.