Player Evaluations: The Three Lions Secure a Spot for the Upcoming Tournament
England earned their berth at the next World Cup with a comfortable triumph over Latvia on the midweek fixture.
First Eleven Performance
- The goalkeeper – Made a couple of fine stops in the latter period to extend his remarkable clean sheet run. It's now nine straight in a row. 6.5
- The defender – Seems at home in international football like a duck to water. Tougher tests lie ahead, of course, but a good start to his England career. 7
- John Stones – A pair of fixtures in a short span will do the Manchester City defender a great benefit. Still one of the first names on the team-sheet, fitness permitting. 7
- Ezri Konsa – Selected ahead of the other option and was flawless. Executed an excellent last-ditch recovery tackle in the second half to boot. 7
- The young defender – Appeared a slightly ring rusty at times, expected given his scarce minutes at his club. An intriguing few months ahead. 6
- Elliott Anderson – Looks undroppable in this England team at the moment. Seems made for this level and has developed an excellent partnership with Rice. 7
- The midfielder – Excelling in his number eight role. The pillar of England's midfield is displaying his offensive abilities now. Becoming a true all-round midfielder. 7
- The attacker – Not as impactful as he has been in England's successes over other teams. The answer will come 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 crucial to England's prospects next summer. 7.5
- The captain – Playing brilliantly. Boosted his total for the season to 20 goals. Has found the net 76 goals for his country. Will he achieve 100? 8
- Anthony Gordon – Sharp finish to open the scoring for England here in the Latvian capital. Has acquitted himself well during this break. 7.5
Subs' Impact
- Jordan Henderson (for Rice 60) – Maintained the tempo in midfield. 6
- Crystal Palace's star (for Rogers 60) – Excellently taken goal and a threat. 7
- The winger (for Saka 60) – Battles on his hands to make the squad when all are available. 6
- Newcastle's full-back (for Stones 71) – Predictably, dealt with everything aerially. 6
- Manchester United's star (for Gordon 71) – A quick burst down the left was noticeable. 6
After a World Cup spot secured, the squad can now turn their attention for next summer with confidence.