Squad Evaluations: England Qualify for 2026 World Cup
Gareth Southgate's side earned their spot at the global tournament with a decisive victory over Latvia on Tuesday night.
The Starting Lineup
- England's number one – Made a couple of good saves in the latter period to preserve his impressive clean sheet record. It's now nine straight in a row. 6.5
- The full-back – Has taken to international football seamlessly. Sterner tests are coming, of course, but a good start to his England career. 7
- John Stones – Two matches in five days will do the Manchester City defender a world of good. Remains one of the first names on the starting lineup, fitness permitting. 7
- The centre-back – Picked ahead of Marc Guehi and performed solidly. Executed an outstanding last-ditch recovery tackle in the second half to boot. 7
- Arsenal's talent – Appeared a little ring rusty at times, understandable given his scarce minutes at Arsenal. An interesting few months ahead. 6
- Newcastle's star – Seems irreplaceable in this England team at the moment. Appears tailored for this level and has formed an strong partnership with Rice. 7
- The midfielder – Excelling in his attacking role. The backbone of England's midfield is demonstrating his offensive abilities now. Developing into a real all-round midfielder. 7
- Morgan Rogers – Less influential as he has been in England's victories over Serbia and Wales. It will be revealed next month who is the rightful holder of the number 10 shirt. 6
- Bukayo Saka – Provided an key pass to his excellent goal against Wales last Thursday. Will be vital to England's chances next summer. 7.5
- The captain – Playing brilliantly. Took his count for the season to 20 goals. Has found the net 76 times for his country. Will he achieve 100? 8
- The forward – Precise finish to get the ball rolling for England here in the Latvian capital. Has acquitted himself well during this break. 7.5
England Substitutes
- The veteran (for Rice 60) – Kept play flowing in midfield. 6
- The playmaker (for Rogers 60) – Well-executed goal and a threat. 7
- Jarrod Bowen (for Saka 60) – Has a fight on his hands to be selected when the squad is full. 6
- Newcastle's full-back (for Stones 71) – As you'd expect, handled everything in the air. 6
- Manchester United's star (for Gordon 71) – A speedy dash down the left caught the eye. 6
After their place secured, the team can now prepare for next summer with confidence.