Player Assessments: England Secure a Spot for the Upcoming Tournament

England secured their place at the global tournament with a convincing win over Latvia on the midweek fixture.

First Eleven Performance

• The goalkeeper – Pulled off a few of good stops in the second half to preserve his remarkable clean sheet record. That's nine consecutive in a row. 6.5
• The defender – Has adapted to international football with ease. Tougher tests lie ahead, of course, but a positive start to his England career. 7
• John Stones – A pair of fixtures in five days will do the City defender a lot of good. Remains one of the first names on the team-sheet, fitness permitting. 7
• The centre-back – Picked ahead of Marc Guehi and performed solidly. Executed an outstanding last-ditch recovery tackle in the closing period to boot. 7
• The young defender – Looked a slightly ring rusty at times, understandable given his limited game time at his club. An interesting few months ahead. 6
• Newcastle's star – Looks essential in this England team at the moment. Seems made for this level and has developed an excellent partnership with Rice. 7
• The midfielder – Thriving in his advanced midfield role. The backbone of England's midfield is showing his offensive abilities now. Emerging as a real all-round midfielder. 7
• The attacker – Quieter as he has been in England's successes over previous opponents. The answer will come next month who is the rightful holder of the number 10 shirt. 6
• The winger – Provided an setup to his superb goal against Wales last Thursday. Will be key to England's prospects next summer. 7.5
• Harry Kane – In the form of his life. Took his count for the season to 20 goals. Has scored 76 occasions for his country. Can he reach 100? 8
• Anthony Gordon – Clinical finish to get the ball rolling for England here in away. Has performed admirably during this break. 7.5

The Bench Players

• The veteran (for Rice 60) – Kept things moving in midfield. 6
• The playmaker (for Rogers 60) – Superbly finished goal and a menace. 7
• West Ham's attacker (for Saka 60) – Has a fight on his hands to earn a place when the squad is full. 6
• Newcastle's full-back (for Stones 71) – Typically, dealt with everything in the air. 6
• Marcus Rashford (for Gordon 71) – A quick burst down the left stood out. 6

After qualification booked, the team can now focus for the World Cup with high hopes.