Squad Evaluations: The Three Lions Secure a Spot for the Next World Cup
Gareth Southgate's side secured their berth at the 2026 World Cup with a comfortable win over Latvia on Tuesday night.
The Starting Lineup
- Jordan Pickford – Pulled off a couple of good saves in the latter period to extend his remarkable clean sheet record. It's now nine consecutive in a row. 6.5
- Djed Spence – Has taken to international football like a duck to water. More challenging tests await, of course, but a promising start to his England career. 7
- The defender – Two matches in less than a week will do the Manchester City defender a great benefit. Still one of the automatic picks on the team-sheet, fitness permitting. 7
- Aston Villa's defender – Picked ahead of Marc Guehi and was flawless. Made an superb last-ditch recovery tackle in the later stages to boot. 7
- The young defender – Appeared a somewhat ring rusty at times, understandable given his scarce minutes at his club. An promising few months ahead. 6
- Newcastle's star – Appears essential in this England team at the moment. Seems suited to this level and has developed an productive partnership with Rice. 7
- Declan Rice – Thriving in his attacking role. The backbone of England's midfield is showing his attacking abilities now. Developing into a genuine all-round midfielder. 7
- The attacker – Less influential as he has been in England's successes over previous opponents. The answer will come next month who is the true owner of the number 10 shirt. 6
- Bukayo Saka – Contributed an assist to his brilliant goal against Wales last Thursday. Will be crucial to England's chances next summer. 7.5
- The captain – In the form of his life. Boosted his count for the season to 20 scores. Has found the net 76 goals for his country. Can he reach 100? 8
- Anthony Gordon – Clinical finish to open the scoring for England here in Riga. Has done a good job during this break. 7.5
England Substitutes
- The experienced midfielder (for Rice 60) – Maintained the tempo in midfield. 6
- Eberechi Eze (for Rogers 60) – Superbly finished goal and a danger. 7
- The winger (for Saka 60) – Faces competition on his hands to be selected when all are available. 6
- The defender (for Stones 71) – Predictably, dealt with everything with his height. 6
- Marcus Rashford (for Gordon 71) – A quick burst down the left stood out. 6
With their place booked, the team can now prepare for the World Cup with high hopes.