Squad Assessments: The Three Lions Qualify for the Next World Cup
Gareth Southgate's side earned their berth at the next World Cup with a comfortable victory over Latvia on the midweek fixture.
The Starting Lineup
- The goalkeeper – Made a couple of fine saves in the second half to maintain his remarkable clean sheet streak. That's nine consecutive in a row. 6.5
- The full-back – Has taken to international football like a duck to water. Sterner tests lie ahead, of course, but a good start to his England career. 7
- Manchester City's centre-back – A pair of fixtures in a short span will do the Manchester City defender a lot of good. Still one of the automatic picks on the roster, fitness permitting. 7
- Aston Villa's defender – Chosen ahead of Marc Guehi and was flawless. Made an excellent last-ditch recovery tackle in the second half to boot. 7
- Arsenal's talent – Looked a slightly ring rusty at times, expected given his scarce minutes at Arsenal. An intriguing few months ahead. 6
- The midfielder – Looks undroppable in this England team at the moment. Seems suited to this level and has struck up an strong partnership with Rice. 7
- Arsenal's engine – Excelling in his attacking role. The pillar of England's midfield is displaying his attacking abilities now. Emerging as a true all-round midfielder. 7
- Morgan Rogers – Quieter as he has been in England's victories over Serbia and Wales. The answer will come next month who is the rightful holder of the number 10 shirt. 6
- Bukayo Saka – Provided an setup to his superb goal against Wales last Thursday. Will be vital to England's chances next summer. 7.5
- The captain – At his peak. Increased his count for the season to 20 strikes. Has found the net 76 occasions for his country. Is 100 possible 100? 8
- Anthony Gordon – Sharp finish to open the scoring for England here in the Latvian capital. Has done a good job during this fixture period. 7.5
Subs' Impact
- The veteran (for Rice 60) – Kept things moving in midfield. 6
- The playmaker (for Rogers 60) – Well-executed goal and a threat. 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 aerially. 6
- Manchester United's star (for Gordon 71) – A speedy dash down the left stood out. 6
After a World Cup spot confirmed, England can now focus for next summer with high hopes.
