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.