Squad Ratings: The Three Lions Book Their Place for the Next World Cup
England secured their place at the global tournament with a convincing victory over their opponents on Tuesday evening.
The Starting Lineup
- England's number one β Made a few of good stops in the latter period to preserve his impressive clean sheet record. That's nine consecutive in a row. 6.5
- The defender β Has taken to international football like a duck to water. Sterner tests await, of course, but a positive start to his England career. 7
- Manchester City's centre-back β Two games in a short span will do the City defender a great benefit. Still one of the first names on the roster, fitness permitting. 7
- Aston Villa's defender β Chosen ahead of the other option and performed solidly. Made an excellent last-ditch recovery tackle in the second half to boot. 7
- The young defender β Appeared a little ring rusty at times, expected given his scarce minutes at his club. An intriguing few months ahead. 6
- Elliott Anderson β Appears essential in this England team at the moment. Looks made for this level and has developed an excellent partnership with Rice. 7
- The midfielder β Excelling in his number eight role. The mainstay of England's midfield is demonstrating his attacking abilities now. Becoming a real all-round midfielder. 7
- The forward β Quieter as he has been in England's successes over previous opponents. We should find out next month who is the leading candidate of the number 10 shirt. 6
- The winger β Provided an assist to his excellent goal against Wales last Thursday. Will be key to England's prospects next summer. 7.5
- The captain β At his peak. Took his tally for the season to 20 goals. Has found the net 76 goals for his country. Is 100 possible 100? 8
- The forward β Clinical finish to open the scoring for England here in Riga. Has performed admirably during this fixture period. 7.5
The Bench Players
- Jordan Henderson (for Rice 60) β Kept things moving in midfield. 6
- Crystal Palace's star (for Rogers 60) β Excellently taken goal and a menace. 7
- The winger (for Saka 60) β Battles on his hands to earn a place when everyone's fit. 6
- Dan Burn (for Stones 71) β As you'd expect, managed everything in the air. 6
- Marcus Rashford (for Gordon 71) β A quick burst down the left caught the eye. 6
After qualification booked, England can now prepare for next summer with high hopes.