England v Poland: How the home players rated

Goals from Wayne Rooney and Steven Gerrard saw England beat Poland 2-0 and secure a spot at the 2014 World Cup.

Rooney put England in front with a fine first half-header, before captain Steven Gerrard calmed the nerves with a late solo effort that sealed his nation's place in Brazil.

Here I give my assessment of all the players used by England manager Roy Hodgson on a celebratory night at Wembley.

JOE HART (GOALKEEPER) - 7

Crucial save from Robert Lewandowski on the hour kept England on level terms. Alert throughout, and this game and clean sheet will bolster his confidence, which has looked fragile recently.

CHRIS SMALLING (RIGHT-BACK) - 6

Tough introduction at right-back. Nervous early on but improved as the game went on. Not a natural in this position at international level.

GARY CAHILL (CENTRE-BACK) - 6

Under pressure early on but made some crucial blocks and occasionally a threat at set-pieces.

PHIL JAGIELKA (CENTRE-BACK) - 6

Improved after a nervous start when Poland broke quickly on England. Solid without being spectacular, he and Cahill are now England's established pair.

LEIGHTON BAINES (LEFT-BACK) - 9

Outstanding again - especially in the first half when he created Wayne Rooney's goal. Can Roy Hodgson really justify recalling Ashley Cole? Man of the match.

ANDROS TOWNSEND (RIGHT MIDFIELD) - 8

Excellent once more. Fast and direct - a threat who looks completely at home in an England shirt.

STEVEN GERRARD (MIDFIELD) - 6

Actually one of his quieter games at times but a decisive contribution with a goal and never stopped trying to set the right example. As Roy Hodgson said: "A captain's innings."

MICHAEL CARRICK (MIDFIELD) - 7

Fully justified his recall. Intelligent on the ball and rarely gave it away. Crucial as England took control in the first half after Poland's bright start.

DANNY WELBECK (LEFT MIDFIELD) - 6

Once again worked hard in an unfamiliar left-flank role but his finishing was a disappointment. Place may be under threat when Hodgson has a full-strength squad to choose from.

WAYNE ROONEY (FORWARD) - 8

The game-changer once more with that vital opening goal, was a threat throughout. Tireless, and still a player England cannot do without.

DANIEL STURRIDGE (FORWARD) - 7

Will grow into a natural foil for Rooney with greater experience for Liverpool and England. A real talent who could easily have got on the scoresheet.

ENGLAND SUBSTITUTES

Frank Lampard (for Carrick 71 mins) - 5

A surprising introduction and was quiet. Little impact.

Jack Wilshere (for Sturridge 82 mins) - 5

Sent on to solidify midfield.

James Milner (for Townsend 86 mins) - 5

One to run down the clock and close the door on any Poland threat.