Squad Assessments: The Three Lions Secure a Spot for the Next World Cup

England earned their berth at the 2026 World Cup with a convincing win over Latvia on Tuesday night.

First Eleven Performance

• The goalkeeper – Pulled off a couple of good saves in the second half to extend his impressive clean sheet run. That's nine consecutive in a row. 6.5
• Djed Spence – Has taken to international football seamlessly. More challenging tests are coming, of course, but a positive start to his England career. 7
• John Stones – Two matches in a short span will do the Manchester City defender a world of good. Still one of the automatic picks on the team-sheet, fitness permitting. 7
• Ezri Konsa – Selected ahead of his competitor and didn't put a foot wrong. Executed an superb last-ditch recovery tackle in the closing period to boot. 7
• Arsenal's talent – Looked a slightly not at his best at times, understandable given his scarce minutes at Arsenal. An promising few months ahead. 6
• Newcastle's star – Seems irreplaceable in this England team at the moment. Looks made for this level and has developed an excellent partnership with Rice. 7
• Arsenal's engine – Enjoying his advanced midfield role. The pillar of England's midfield is showing his attacking abilities now. Developing into a true all-round midfielder. 7
• Morgan Rogers – Quieter as he has been in England's victories over Serbia and Wales. The answer will come next month who is the true owner of the number 10 shirt. 6
• Arsenal's star – Contributed an key pass to his superb goal against Wales last Thursday. Will be key to England's hopes next summer. 7.5
• The captain – In the form of his life. Took his tally for the season to 20 goals. Has scored 76 times for his country. Can he reach 100? 8
• Anthony Gordon – Clinical finish to open the scoring for England here in away. Has performed admirably during this international window. 7.5

England Substitutes

• Jordan Henderson (for Rice 60) – Maintained the tempo in midfield. 6
• Eberechi Eze (for Rogers 60) – Well-executed goal and a menace. 7
• Jarrod Bowen (for Saka 60) – Battles on his hands to be selected when all are available. 6
• Dan Burn (for Stones 71) – As you'd expect, managed everything aerially. 6
• Manchester United's star (for Gordon 71) – One pacy run down the left was noticeable. 6

With a World Cup spot confirmed, England can now focus for the World Cup with confidence.