Squad Evaluations: The Three Lions Qualify for the Upcoming Tournament
Gareth Southgate's side earned their berth at the global tournament with a decisive victory over Latvia on Tuesday evening.
England's Starting XI
- The goalkeeper – Pulled off a couple of excellent stops in the second half to maintain his impressive clean sheet record. That's nine in a row. 6.5
- The defender – Has adapted to international football like a duck to water. More challenging tests await, of course, but a good 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. Remains one of the key players on the team-sheet, fitness permitting. 7
- Aston Villa's defender – Selected ahead of his competitor and performed solidly. Executed an outstanding last-ditch recovery tackle in the closing period to boot. 7
- Arsenal's talent – Looked a somewhat off the pace at times, understandable given his lack of action at Arsenal. An intriguing few months ahead. 6
- Elliott Anderson – Appears undroppable in this England team at the moment. Seems suited to this level and has formed an excellent partnership with Rice. 7
- Arsenal's engine – Excelling in his number eight role. The backbone of England's midfield is showing his offensive abilities now. Developing into a genuine all-round midfielder. 7
- The attacker – Quieter as he has been in England's wins over previous opponents. It will be revealed next month who is the leading candidate of the number 10 shirt. 6
- The winger – Provided an assist to his brilliant goal against Wales last Thursday. Will be key to England's hopes next summer. 7.5
- The captain – In the form of his life. Boosted his count for the season to 20 goals. Has hit the back of the net 76 goals for his country. Will he achieve 100? 8
- The forward – Sharp finish to open the scoring for England here in Riga. Has done a good job during this international window. 7.5
Subs' Impact
- Jordan Henderson (for Rice 60) – Kept things moving in midfield. 6
- Crystal Palace's star (for Rogers 60) – Superbly finished goal and a danger. 7
- West Ham's attacker (for Saka 60) – Faces competition on his hands to earn a place when the squad is full. 6
- The defender (for Stones 71) – Predictably, handled everything with his height. 6
- Manchester United's star (for Gordon 71) – A speedy dash down the left stood out. 6
With their place confirmed, England can now turn their attention for next summer with high hopes.