England player ratings from Euro 2024 opener vs Serbia as Jude Bellingham and Marc Guehi impress

England have kicked off their European Championship campaign with a tentative 1-0 victory over Group C opponents Serbia.

Gareth Southgate named an experienced line-up for Sunday's clash in Gelsenkirchen, with Trent Alexander-Arnold being given the much-talked-about nod in midfield alongside Declan Rice.

Marc Guehi, who has been so impressive for Crystal Palace, made his major-tournament debut alongside Kyle Walker, Kieran Trippier and Jordan Pickford.

As expected, the prolific Jude Bellingham joined Bukayo Saka, Phil Foden and Harry Kane up top in what is arguably the strongest attacking line-up at this summer's tournament.

So, how did they get on? Germany, Spain and the Netherlands all made positive starts to the tournament, meaning the pressure was on for England.

And it's fair to say they didn't disappoint [for the most part] as a first-half goal from Jude Bellingham sealed all three points.

England player ratings

Jordan Pickford - 7

As always, vocal throughout but at times, Everton's Player of the Season was rash in possession, deciding to go long instead of playing it simple. Rarely tested but made a top save from an unexpected effort from Dusan Vlahovic late on.

Ahead of kick-off, Pickford said he wants to be "appreciated" for his achievements in an England shirt. Some have their doubts, including former Germany midfielder Dietmar Hamann, but a decent start from the 30-year-old.

Kieran Trippier - 6

Given the nod at left-back in Luke Shaw's absence. His link-up play with Foden was non-existent at times. Obviously not Tripper's most comfortable position and some will argue that Joe Gomez deserves a chance against Denmark if Shaw remains sidelined.

John Stones - 7

Clearly isn't 100 per cent fit. Sluggish at times but made some big interceptions throughout.

Marc Guehi - 8

A calming presence at the back on his major-tournament debut. Man-marked Vlahovic [not an easy task] and looked extremely composed in possession. Won so many duels. One of England's stand-out performers on the night. Bravo.

Kyle Walker - 6

Almost scored a rare goal in the 24th minute after a great interception from Trent. Not his finest performance in an England shirt but will be hugely important in the coming weeks.

Trent Alexander Arnold - 6

Roy Keane and Wayne Rooney raised their concerns but Alexander-Arnold performed admirably on his much-talked-about midfield outing alongside Declan Rice.

Offered much-needed protection at the back and was given the licence to come inside from the right at times. A poor touch allowed Mitrovic a shot in the 20th minute but other than that, a solid all-round performance.

Declan Rice - 7

Mopped up in front of the back four. Sensible in possession and made several brilliant last-ditch tackles.

Jude Bellingham - 8

Cometh the hour, cometh the man. Gerrard-like header in the 13th minute. Timed his run to perfection. Was given license to play further forward and flourished, especially in that first-half.

Phil Foden - 5

He dropped deep to try and get in the game. Floated to the left and right in advanced areas but never got going.

Bukayo Saka - 8

Strahinja Pavlovic will be having nightmare about Bukayo Saka tonight. Assist for Bellingham. Serbia struggled with his movement. Great link-up play with Trent throughout. One of England's best performers on the night.

Harry Kane - 5

Touched the ball twice in the opening 45 minutes. A quiet evening for England's all-time top goalscorer.