Squad Assessments: The Three Lions Qualify for the Upcoming Tournament
England clinched their berth at the 2026 World Cup with a decisive win over Latvia on the midweek fixture.
England's Starting XI
- England's number one – Pulled off a couple of fine saves in the second half to extend his impressive clean sheet record. It's now nine consecutive in a row. 6.5
- The full-back – Seems at home in international football with ease. Tougher tests are coming, of course, but a positive start to his England career. 7
- Manchester City's centre-back – A pair of fixtures in a short span will do the City defender a lot of good. Still one of the first names on the starting lineup, fitness permitting. 7
- Ezri Konsa – Picked ahead of Marc Guehi and didn't put a foot wrong. Made an outstanding last-ditch recovery tackle in the closing period to boot. 7
- Myles Lewis-Skelly – Appeared a somewhat off the pace at times, expected given his scarce minutes at Arsenal. An promising few months ahead. 6
- The midfielder – Seems undroppable in this England team at the moment. Seems made for this level and has formed an productive partnership with Rice. 7
- Declan Rice – Excelling in his advanced midfield role. The mainstay of England's midfield is demonstrating his offensive abilities now. Becoming a real all-round midfielder. 7
- Morgan Rogers – Not as impactful as he has been in England's victories over previous opponents. We should find out next month who is the rightful holder of the number 10 shirt. 6
- The winger – Contributed an setup to his excellent goal against Wales last Thursday. Will be crucial to England's hopes next summer. 7.5
- The captain – At his peak. Increased his count for the season to 20 strikes. Has found the net 76 goals for his country. Can he reach 100? 8
- The forward – Precise finish to start things off for England here in Riga. Has acquitted himself well during this international window. 7.5
Subs' Impact
- The veteran (for Rice 60) – Kept play flowing in midfield. 6
- The playmaker (for Rogers 60) – Superbly finished goal and a menace. 7
- Jarrod Bowen (for Saka 60) – Faces competition on his hands to make the squad when all are available. 6
- The defender (for Stones 71) – As you'd expect, handled everything with his height. 6
- Manchester United's star (for Gordon 71) – A speedy dash down the left stood out. 6
After qualification confirmed, the squad can now focus for the upcoming tournament with confidence.