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

Gareth Southgate's side earned their spot at the global tournament with a convincing win over the Baltic side on Tuesday night.

First Eleven Performance

  • England's number one – Pulled off a few of fine stops in the latter period to maintain his remarkable clean sheet record. It's now nine consecutive in a row. 6.5
  • The defender – Has adapted to international football like a duck to water. More challenging tests await, 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 Manchester City defender a great benefit. Still 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 closing period to boot. 7
  • Myles Lewis-Skelly – Looked a little not at his best at times, understandable given his limited game time at his club. An promising few months ahead. 6
  • Newcastle's star – Looks essential in this England team at the moment. Appears suited to this level and has formed an productive partnership with Rice. 7
  • Arsenal's engine – Excelling in his attacking role. The backbone of England's midfield is demonstrating his offensive abilities now. Developing into a true all-round midfielder. 7
  • The attacker – Not as impactful as he has been in England's successes over other teams. It will be revealed next month who is the rightful holder of the number 10 shirt. 6
  • Arsenal's star – Contributed an setup to his excellent goal against Wales last Thursday. Will be vital to England's chances next summer. 7.5
  • Harry Kane – Playing brilliantly. Took his count for the season to 20 scores. Has hit the back of the net 76 goals for his country. Will he achieve 100? 8
  • Anthony Gordon – Clinical finish to get the ball rolling for England here in the Latvian capital. Has acquitted himself well during this international window. 7.5

The Bench Players

  • The veteran (for Rice 60) – Kept things moving in midfield. 6
  • Eberechi Eze (for Rogers 60) – Superbly finished goal and a threat. 7
  • Jarrod Bowen (for Saka 60) – Battles on his hands to be selected when the squad is full. 6
  • Dan Burn (for Stones 71) – Predictably, dealt with everything aerially. 6
  • Marcus Rashford (for Gordon 71) – A quick burst down the left stood out. 6

With qualification confirmed, the team can now focus for next summer with high hopes.

Virginia Casey
Virginia Casey

A seasoned strategist with over a decade of experience in management consulting and tactical planning.