Squad Assessments: The Three Lions Book Their Place for the Next World Cup

Gareth Southgate's side clinched their berth at the next World Cup with a convincing victory over Latvia on Tuesday night.

England's Starting XI

  • The goalkeeper – Pulled off a couple of excellent stops in the second half to maintain his impressive clean sheet record. That's nine in a row. 6.5
  • Djed Spence – Has adapted to international football like a duck to water. Tougher tests lie ahead, of course, but a positive start to his England career. 7
  • John Stones – A pair of fixtures in a short span will do the Manchester City defender a lot of good. Still one of the key players on the roster, fitness permitting. 7
  • The centre-back – Selected ahead of the other option and was flawless. Executed an outstanding last-ditch recovery tackle in the closing period to boot. 7
  • The young defender – Looked a slightly ring rusty at times, understandable given his limited game time at his club. An intriguing few months ahead. 6
  • Newcastle's star – Seems undroppable in this England team at the moment. Looks tailored for this level and has developed an productive partnership with Rice. 7
  • Arsenal's engine – Enjoying his attacking role. The backbone of England's midfield is demonstrating his creative abilities now. Emerging as a true all-round midfielder. 7
  • Morgan Rogers – Less influential as he has been in England's wins over other teams. It will be revealed next month who is the leading candidate of the number 10 shirt. 6
  • The winger – Provided an assist to his excellent goal against Wales last Thursday. Will be crucial to England's hopes next summer. 7.5
  • The captain – Playing brilliantly. Increased his tally for the season to 20 strikes. Has scored 76 times for his country. Is 100 possible 100? 8
  • Anthony Gordon – Sharp finish to get the ball rolling for England here in away. Has acquitted himself well during this break. 7.5

Subs' Impact

  • The veteran (for Rice 60) – Maintained the tempo in midfield. 6
  • Crystal Palace's star (for Rogers 60) – Excellently taken goal and a danger. 7
  • Jarrod Bowen (for Saka 60) – Has a fight on his hands to be selected when the squad is full. 6
  • The defender (for Stones 71) – Predictably, dealt with everything with his height. 6
  • Manchester United's star (for Gordon 71) – A speedy dash down the left caught the eye. 6

After a World Cup spot secured, England can now focus for the upcoming tournament with confidence.

James Rodriguez
James Rodriguez

A passionate gamer and writer with over a decade of experience in exploring virtual worlds and sharing insights on loot mechanics.