England began their European Championship campaign with a shaky 1-0 win over Group C opponents Serbia.

Gareth Southgate chose an experienced lineup for Sunday’s showdown in Gelsenkirchen, with Trent Alexander-Arnold starting in midfield alongside Declan Rice.

Marc Guehi, who has been a standout for Crystal Palace, made his major tournament debut with Kyle Walker, Kieran Trippier, and Jordan Pickford.

As expected, the prolific Jude Bellingham joined Bukayo Saka, Phil Foden, and Harry Kane up front in what is perhaps the best attacking line-up in this summer’s tournament.

So, how did they get along? Germany, Spain, and the Netherlands all had strong starts to the competition, putting the pressure on England.

And it’s fair to say they didn’t disappoint [for the most part], as Jude Bellingham’s first-half goal secured all three points.

England players’ ratings

Jordan Pickford – 7. Everton’s Player of the Season was outspoken throughout, but at times, he was rash in possession, opting to go long rather than simple. Rarely tested, he produced an outstanding stop late on from Dusan Vlahovic’s surprise shot.

Pickford stated ahead of kickoff that he wanted to be “appreciated” for his achievements while wearing the England shirt. Some, notably former Germany midfielder Dietmar Hamann, are skeptical, but the 30-year-old has made a promising start.

Kieran Trippier – 6 In place of Luke Shaw, he was given the starting left-back position. His link-up play with Foden was occasionally non-existent. Clearly not Tripper’s most comfortable position, and some may argue that Joe Gomez deserves an opportunity against Denmark if Shaw is out.

John Stones – 7 Clearly isn’t 100% fit. Sluggish at times, but made many key interceptions throughout.

Marc Guehi – 8 In his major-tournament debut, he provided a soothing presence in the back. Vlahovic was man-marked [not an easy task] and appeared to be in complete control. Won numerous duels. One of England’s standout performers of the night. Bravo.

Kyle Walker – 6 Trent made an excellent interception in the 24th minute, and I nearly scored a rare goal. Not his best performance in an England shirt, but extremely essential in the coming weeks.

Trent Alexander Arnold – 7. Roy Keane and Wayne Rooney expressed their fears, but Alexander-Arnold impressed in his much-anticipated midfield appearance alongside Declan Rice.

Provided much-needed security in the back and was granted permission to enter from the right at times. Mitrovic had a shot in the 20th minute thanks to a weak touch, but otherwise, it was a terrific all-around performance.

Declan Rice – 7 Mopped up forward of the back four. Sensible in possession and executed numerous outstanding last-ditch tackles.

Jude Bellingham – 8.The hour comes, and so does the man. In the 13th minute, a header similar to Gerrard’s. He timed his run well. Was given the freedom to play further forward and prospered, particularly in the first half.

Phil Foden – 6 He dropped deep to try to get into the game. Floated to the left and right in advanced regions, but never got anywhere. A fullback who can overlap is required.

Bukayo Saka – 8 Strahinja Pavlovic will have a nightmare about Bukayo Saka tonight. Assist Bellingham. Serbia struggled with his movements. Trent and I had some great link-up play throughout. One of England’s better performers that night.

Harry Kane – 6 Touched the ball twice in the first 45 minutes. England’s all-time top goalscorer had a quiet evening.