Squad Assessments: England Book Their Place for the Upcoming Tournament

Gareth Southgate's side secured their spot at the next World Cup with a comfortable victory over the Baltic side on Tuesday night.

First Eleven Performance

  • The goalkeeper – Made a couple of excellent saves in the latter period to maintain his impressive clean sheet streak. It's now nine in a row. 6.5
  • The defender – Has taken to international football with ease. Tougher tests await, of course, but a positive start to his England career. 7
  • Manchester City's centre-back – A pair of fixtures in five days will do the City defender a lot of good. Remains one of the key players on the roster, fitness permitting. 7
  • Aston Villa's defender – Chosen ahead of the other option and didn't put a foot wrong. Executed an outstanding last-ditch recovery tackle in the closing period to boot. 7
  • Myles Lewis-Skelly – Looked a little not at his best at times, expected given his lack of action at Arsenal. An intriguing few months ahead. 6
  • Elliott Anderson – Appears essential in this England team at the moment. Seems made for this level and has formed an excellent partnership with Rice. 7
  • Arsenal's engine – Excelling in his number eight role. The pillar of England's midfield is showing his creative abilities now. Emerging as a true all-round midfielder. 7
  • The forward – Quieter as he has been in England's successes over previous opponents. It will be revealed next month who is the leading candidate of the number 10 shirt. 6
  • Bukayo Saka – Added an key pass to his excellent goal against Wales last Thursday. Will be vital to England's hopes next summer. 7.5
  • Harry Kane – Playing brilliantly. Increased his tally for the season to 20 goals. Has found the net 76 times for his country. Can he reach 100? 8
  • Newcastle's attacker – Precise finish to open the scoring for England here in away. Has performed admirably during this break. 7.5

The Bench Players

  • The veteran (for Rice 60) – Kept play flowing in midfield. 6
  • Crystal Palace's star (for Rogers 60) – Superbly finished goal and a danger. 7
  • West Ham's attacker (for Saka 60) – Battles on his hands to earn a place when everyone's fit. 6
  • The defender (for Stones 71) – As you'd expect, dealt with everything with his height. 6
  • The forward (for Gordon 71) – A quick burst down the left caught the eye. 6

After a World Cup spot confirmed, England can now focus for next summer with confidence.

Joshua Tucker
Joshua Tucker

Lena Hoffmann is a seasoned journalist with a passion for uncovering stories that matter, specializing in German current affairs and digital media trends.