Squad Ratings: The Three Lions Secure a Spot for the Upcoming Tournament
The national team clinched their spot at the 2026 World Cup with a convincing triumph over Latvia on the midweek fixture.
First Eleven Performance
- England's number one – Made a few of fine stops in the latter period to maintain his remarkable clean sheet streak. That's nine consecutive in a row. 6.5
- Djed Spence – Has taken to international football seamlessly. Tougher tests await, of course, but a good start to his England career. 7
- John Stones – Two matches in a short span will do the City defender a world of good. Still one of the first names on the team-sheet, fitness permitting. 7
- Ezri Konsa – Chosen 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 – Appeared a slightly off the pace at times, expected given his lack of action at his club. An intriguing few months ahead. 6
- The midfielder – Looks undroppable in this England team at the moment. Looks made for this level and has formed an strong partnership with Rice. 7
- Declan Rice – Thriving in his attacking role. The mainstay of England's midfield is showing his offensive abilities now. Developing into a genuine all-round midfielder. 7
- The forward – Quieter as he has been in England's victories over other teams. We should find out next month who is the leading candidate of the number 10 shirt. 6
- Bukayo Saka – Contributed an assist to his superb goal against Wales last Thursday. Will be vital to England's prospects next summer. 7.5
- Harry Kane – At his peak. Took his total for the season to 20 strikes. Has hit the back of the net 76 goals for his country. Is 100 possible 100? 8
- Newcastle's attacker – Clinical finish to open the scoring for England here in the Latvian capital. Has performed admirably during this international window. 7.5
The Bench Players
- Jordan Henderson (for Rice 60) – Kept play flowing in midfield. 6
- The playmaker (for Rogers 60) – Well-executed goal and a menace. 7
- West Ham's attacker (for Saka 60) – Battles on his hands to be selected when the squad is full. 6
- Dan Burn (for Stones 71) – Typically, managed everything in the air. 6
- The forward (for Gordon 71) – A quick burst down the left was noticeable. 6
After qualification secured, the team can now focus for the World Cup with optimism.