Player Assessments: The Three Lions Qualify for the Upcoming Tournament
Gareth Southgate's side secured their spot at the 2026 World Cup with a convincing victory over Latvia on Tuesday night.
England's Starting XI
- England's number one – Pulled off a few of excellent stops in the latter period to maintain his remarkable clean sheet record. That's nine in a row. 6.5
- The defender – Has taken to international football with ease. Tougher tests lie ahead, of course, but a promising start to his England career. 7
- Manchester City's centre-back – A pair of fixtures in five days will do the City defender a world of good. Still one of the automatic picks on the roster, fitness permitting. 7
- Aston Villa's defender – Chosen ahead of his competitor and was flawless. Made an excellent last-ditch recovery tackle in the closing period to boot. 7
- Myles Lewis-Skelly – Looked a slightly ring rusty at times, understandable given his limited game time at Arsenal. An intriguing few months ahead. 6
- Newcastle's star – Appears irreplaceable in this England team at the moment. Appears suited to this level and has developed an productive partnership with Rice. 7
- Arsenal's engine – Enjoying his advanced midfield role. The pillar of England's midfield is showing his attacking abilities now. Developing into a true all-round midfielder. 7
- The attacker – Not as impactful as he has been in England's wins over previous opponents. The answer will come next month who is the leading candidate of the number 10 shirt. 6
- Bukayo Saka – Added an key pass to his excellent goal against Wales last Thursday. Will be crucial to England's hopes next summer. 7.5
- The striker – In the form of his life. Boosted his tally for the season to 20 strikes. Has scored 76 occasions for his country. Is 100 possible 100? 8
- Anthony Gordon – Sharp finish to get the ball rolling for England here in the Latvian capital. Has done a good job during this international window. 7.5
Subs' Impact
- The veteran (for Rice 60) – Kept things moving in midfield. 6
- Crystal Palace's star (for Rogers 60) – Excellently taken goal and a danger. 7
- The winger (for Saka 60) – Battles on his hands to earn a place when everyone's fit. 6
- Newcastle's full-back (for Stones 71) – Typically, dealt with everything in the air. 6
- Manchester United's star (for Gordon 71) – A quick burst down the left stood out. 6
With their place secured, the squad can now prepare for the World Cup with optimism.