Player Ratings: The Three Lions Book Their Place for the Upcoming Tournament

Gareth Southgate's side secured their place at the global tournament with a convincing triumph over their opponents on Tuesday night.

England's Starting XI

  • The goalkeeper – Made a couple of fine saves in the latter period to maintain his remarkable clean sheet record. That's nine in a row. 6.5
  • Djed Spence – Seems at home in international football with ease. Tougher tests are coming, of course, but a good start to his England career. 7
  • John Stones – Two matches in five days will do the City defender a great benefit. Still one of the key players on the roster, fitness permitting. 7
  • The centre-back – Chosen ahead of the other option and performed solidly. Executed an superb last-ditch recovery tackle in the closing period to boot. 7
  • Myles Lewis-Skelly – Appeared a somewhat not at his best at times, expected given his lack of action at Arsenal. An promising few months ahead. 6
  • The midfielder – Seems essential in this England team at the moment. Seems tailored for this level and has developed an strong partnership with Rice. 7
  • Arsenal's engine – Excelling in his attacking role. The pillar of England's midfield is showing his attacking abilities now. Developing into a genuine all-round midfielder. 7
  • The attacker – Less influential as he has been in England's wins over previous opponents. It will be revealed next month who is the true owner of the number 10 shirt. 6
  • The winger – Provided an key pass to his excellent goal against Wales last Thursday. Will be key to England's chances next summer. 7.5
  • Harry Kane – At his peak. Boosted his tally for the season to 20 strikes. Has found the net 76 occasions for his country. Can he reach 100? 8
  • The forward – Sharp finish to open the scoring for England here in Riga. Has acquitted himself well during this international window. 7.5

The Bench Players

  • The veteran (for Rice 60) – Kept things moving in midfield. 6
  • Crystal Palace's star (for Rogers 60) – Excellently taken goal and a menace. 7
  • West Ham's attacker (for Saka 60) – Faces competition on his hands to make the squad when everyone's fit. 6
  • The defender (for Stones 71) – Typically, handled everything in the air. 6
  • The forward (for Gordon 71) – A speedy dash down the left caught the eye. 6

After their place confirmed, the squad can now focus for next summer with confidence.

Ana Patel
Ana Patel

A seasoned entertainment journalist with a passion for uncovering the latest celebrity scoops and trends.