Squad Ratings: The Three Lions Secure a Spot for the Upcoming Tournament
The national team clinched their place at the 2026 World Cup with a decisive triumph over Latvia on Tuesday night.
England's Starting XI
- England's number one – Pulled off a couple of excellent saves in the second half to preserve his impressive clean sheet record. It's now nine in a row. 6.5
- The defender – Has taken to international football seamlessly. Sterner tests are coming, of course, but a promising start to his England career. 7
- The defender – A pair of fixtures in five days will do the Manchester City defender a great benefit. Remains one of the key players on the starting lineup, fitness permitting. 7
- Aston Villa's defender – Picked ahead of the other option and didn't put a foot wrong. Made an excellent last-ditch recovery tackle in the second half to boot. 7
- Myles Lewis-Skelly – Looked a somewhat ring rusty at times, expected given his limited game time at Arsenal. An promising few months ahead. 6
- The midfielder – Appears irreplaceable in this England team at the moment. Looks suited to this level and has developed an strong partnership with Rice. 7
- The midfielder – Enjoying his attacking role. The backbone of England's midfield is displaying his offensive abilities now. Becoming a true all-round midfielder. 7
- The forward – Less influential as he has been in England's victories over other teams. The answer will come next month who is the true owner of the number 10 shirt. 6
- Bukayo Saka – Added an key pass to his excellent goal against Wales last Thursday. Will be key to England's prospects next summer. 7.5
- The striker – In the form of his life. Boosted his total for the season to 20 strikes. Has found the net 76 times for his country. Is 100 possible 100? 8
- Anthony Gordon – Clinical finish to start things off for England here in away. Has performed admirably during this international window. 7.5
Subs' Impact
- The experienced midfielder (for Rice 60) – Kept things moving in midfield. 6
- Eberechi Eze (for Rogers 60) – Superbly finished goal and a danger. 7
- Jarrod Bowen (for Saka 60) – Battles on his hands to make the squad when all are available. 6
- The defender (for Stones 71) – Predictably, handled everything in the air. 6
- Manchester United's star (for Gordon 71) – A speedy dash down the left stood out. 6
After qualification confirmed, England can now prepare for next summer with high hopes.