Squad Evaluations: The Three Lions Qualify for 2026 World Cup
Gareth Southgate's side secured their place at the 2026 World Cup with a comfortable triumph over Latvia on the midweek fixture.
The Starting Lineup
- Jordan Pickford – Made a couple of good saves in the second half to extend his remarkable clean sheet streak. It's now nine in a row. 6.5
- Djed Spence – Seems at home in international football with ease. More challenging tests are coming, of course, but a good start to his England career. 7
- The defender – Two matches in less than a week will do the City defender a great benefit. Still one of the automatic picks on the roster, fitness permitting. 7
- The centre-back – Chosen ahead of Marc Guehi and was flawless. Executed an excellent last-ditch recovery tackle in the second half to boot. 7
- The young defender – Looked a somewhat off the pace at times, understandable given his scarce minutes at Arsenal. An interesting few months ahead. 6
- The midfielder – Appears irreplaceable in this England team at the moment. Looks tailored for this level and has struck up an excellent partnership with Rice. 7
- Declan Rice – Thriving in his number eight role. The mainstay of England's midfield is showing his creative abilities now. Emerging as a real all-round midfielder. 7
- The attacker – Quieter as he has been in England's victories over previous opponents. We should find out next month who is the true owner of the number 10 shirt. 6
- Arsenal's star – Added an assist to his brilliant goal against Wales last Thursday. Will be crucial to England's chances next summer. 7.5
- The striker – At his peak. Boosted his tally for the season to 20 goals. Has found the net 76 goals for his country. Will he achieve 100? 8
- Newcastle's attacker – Precise finish to get the ball rolling for England here in the Latvian capital. Has done a good job during this fixture period. 7.5
Subs' Impact
- The veteran (for Rice 60) – Kept things moving in midfield. 6
- Crystal Palace's star (for Rogers 60) – Well-executed goal and a menace. 7
- Jarrod Bowen (for Saka 60) – Faces competition on his hands to make the squad when all are available. 6
- Dan Burn (for Stones 71) – As you'd expect, handled everything aerially. 6
- The forward (for Gordon 71) – A speedy dash down the left caught the eye. 6
With a World Cup spot booked, the squad can now turn their attention for the upcoming tournament with optimism.