Player Evaluations: The Three Lions Secure a Spot for the Upcoming Tournament

Gareth Southgate's side secured their place at the next World Cup with a comfortable triumph over their opponents on Tuesday night.

England's Starting XI

  • The goalkeeper – Pulled off a couple of excellent saves in the second half to preserve his impressive clean sheet streak. That's nine in a row. 6.5
  • Djed Spence – Seems at home in international football like a duck to water. More challenging tests lie ahead, of course, but a good start to his England career. 7
  • John Stones – Two games in a short span will do the Manchester City defender a world 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
  • The young defender – Appeared a somewhat off the pace at times, understandable given his limited game time at Arsenal. An interesting few months ahead. 6
  • Newcastle's star – Looks essential in this England team at the moment. Appears made for this level and has formed an excellent partnership with Rice. 7
  • Declan Rice – Enjoying his attacking role. The pillar of England's midfield is showing his creative abilities now. Developing into a real all-round midfielder. 7
  • The forward – Less influential as he has been in England's successes over other teams. It will be revealed next month who is the rightful holder of the number 10 shirt. 6
  • The winger – Added an key pass to his brilliant goal against Wales last Thursday. Will be vital to England's hopes next summer. 7.5
  • The striker – Playing brilliantly. Boosted his total for the season to 20 goals. Has scored 76 goals for his country. Can he reach 100? 8
  • Newcastle's attacker – Clinical finish to get the ball rolling for England here in Riga. Has performed admirably during this fixture period. 7.5

The Bench Players

  • Jordan Henderson (for Rice 60) – Kept things moving in midfield. 6
  • The playmaker (for Rogers 60) – Well-executed goal and a menace. 7
  • West Ham's attacker (for Saka 60) – Faces competition on his hands to be selected when everyone's fit. 6
  • Newcastle's full-back (for Stones 71) – Predictably, managed everything aerially. 6
  • Manchester United's star (for Gordon 71) – A quick burst down the left caught the eye. 6

With their place secured, England can now prepare for the World Cup with optimism.

Richard Cox
Richard Cox

A tech enthusiast and writer passionate about digital transformation and emerging technologies in Europe.