Squad Ratings: England Book Their Place for the Next World Cup

Gareth Southgate's side earned their berth at the 2026 World Cup with a comfortable victory over Latvia on Tuesday evening.

The Starting Lineup

  • England's number one – Made a few of excellent saves in the latter period to maintain his impressive clean sheet streak. That's nine straight in a row. 6.5
  • The full-back – Seems at home in international football like a duck to water. More challenging tests are coming, of course, but a promising start to his England career. 7
  • John Stones – Two games in a short span will do the Manchester City defender a lot of good. Still one of the automatic picks on the team-sheet, fitness permitting. 7
  • Ezri Konsa – Selected ahead of his competitor and was flawless. Made an superb last-ditch recovery tackle in the second half to boot. 7
  • Arsenal's talent – Appeared a somewhat not at his best at times, understandable given his limited game time at his club. An intriguing few months ahead. 6
  • The midfielder – Appears essential in this England team at the moment. Seems suited to this level and has formed an excellent partnership with Rice. 7
  • Declan Rice – Enjoying his number eight role. The pillar of England's midfield is displaying his offensive abilities now. Becoming a real all-round midfielder. 7
  • Morgan Rogers – Less influential as he has been in England's wins over other teams. We should find out next month who is the leading candidate of the number 10 shirt. 6
  • The winger – Contributed an assist to his excellent 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 strikes. Has found the net 76 times for his country. Can he reach 100? 8
  • Newcastle's attacker – Sharp finish to get the ball rolling for England here in the Latvian capital. Has performed admirably during this break. 7.5

The Bench Players

  • Jordan Henderson (for Rice 60) – Maintained the tempo in midfield. 6
  • The playmaker (for Rogers 60) – Excellently taken goal and a threat. 7
  • West Ham's attacker (for Saka 60) – Faces competition on his hands to be selected when all are available. 6
  • Newcastle's full-back (for Stones 71) – Typically, handled everything with his height. 6
  • Manchester United's star (for Gordon 71) – A speedy dash down the left was noticeable. 6

With qualification secured, the team can now focus for the upcoming tournament with high hopes.

Chelsea Oliver
Chelsea Oliver

Elara is a wellness enthusiast and writer passionate about sharing practical advice for a balanced life.