Walker strengthens case as greatest England right-back in draw against Ukraine
Kyle Walker is England's best-ever right-back, Jordan Henderson and Harry Maguire can no longer be considered first-team regulars, James Maddison still has much to learn about international football and England aren't good enough to be at 70 per cent and still expect to roll over a useful side.
Those will be Gareth Southgate's main lessons from Saturday's 1-1 draw with Ukraine in Euro 2024 qualifying.
Walker's first goal for his country on his 77th cap was a thing of beauty. A brilliant run, a tremendous first touch and a steely finish. You'd be forgiven for thinking he must have done it many times before.
But, speaking to him afterwards, he admitted to me he'd surprised himself and had absolutely no idea how to celebrate. He added that he has always considered his job to stop goals, rather than score them.
And that sublime defensive skill was on show again for all to see in the Wroclaw Stadium.
On numerous occasions, Walker conceded several yards to the rapid Mykhailo Mudryk - never did the Manchester City man let the Chelsea winger get the better of him.
Late in the game, Walker was embraced and heralded by Henderson and Jordan Pickford for snuffing out a dangerous foray from Mudryk. It was a typically low-key piece of defending - making up five yards on the winger, getting goal-side, and using his strength to just block the way to goal and allow the ball to run out for a goal kick. Brilliant.
So, let's start the debate now: for me, there has been no better right-back to wear an England shirt.
The most obvious counter-argument will name George Cohen, England's World Cup winner. It's a strong case.
But I would say Walker couldn't have done any more in his international career to help England win a major trophy and he shouldn't
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