Player Assessments: England Book Their Place for 2026 World Cup
Gareth Southgate's side earned their berth at the next World Cup with a decisive victory over their opponents on Tuesday night.
First Eleven Performance
- The goalkeeper – Pulled off a few of good stops in the second half to preserve his remarkable clean sheet record. It's now nine consecutive in a row. 6.5
- The defender – Seems at home in international football seamlessly. Sterner tests lie ahead, of course, but a good start to his England career. 7
- Manchester City's centre-back – Two games in less than a week will do the City defender a great benefit. Remains one of the first names on the starting lineup, fitness permitting. 7
- Aston Villa's defender – Selected ahead of Marc Guehi and didn't put a foot wrong. Executed an outstanding last-ditch recovery tackle in the second half to boot. 7
- Myles Lewis-Skelly – Appeared a slightly ring rusty at times, understandable given his scarce minutes at Arsenal. An promising few months ahead. 6
- Newcastle's star – Looks essential in this England team at the moment. Seems made for this level and has developed an strong partnership with Rice. 7
- The midfielder – Enjoying his advanced midfield role. The pillar of England's midfield is displaying his creative abilities now. Emerging as a real all-round midfielder. 7
- The forward – Less influential as he has been in England's victories over other teams. It will be revealed next month who is the true owner of the number 10 shirt. 6
- Bukayo Saka – Provided an key pass to his superb goal against Wales last Thursday. Will be key to England's prospects next summer. 7.5
- Harry Kane – Playing brilliantly. Increased his count for the season to 20 scores. Has found the net 76 occasions for his country. Is 100 possible 100? 8
- The forward – Clinical finish to get the ball rolling for England here in the Latvian capital. Has acquitted himself well during this fixture period. 7.5
Subs' Impact
- Jordan Henderson (for Rice 60) – Kept play flowing in midfield. 6
- Crystal Palace's star (for Rogers 60) – Well-executed goal and a danger. 7
- The winger (for Saka 60) – Faces competition on his hands to make the squad when all are available. 6
- Dan Burn (for Stones 71) – Predictably, dealt with everything with his height. 6
- The forward (for Gordon 71) – A speedy dash down the left was noticeable. 6
After a World Cup spot booked, the squad can now turn their attention for the World Cup with optimism.