Player Evaluations: The Three Lions Secure a Spot for the Next World Cup

The national team earned their place at the next World Cup with a decisive win over the Baltic side on the midweek fixture.

The Starting Lineup

  • England's number one – Made a couple of fine saves in the latter period to preserve his impressive clean sheet record. That's nine consecutive in a row. 6.5
  • The full-back – Has adapted to international football like a duck to water. Tougher tests lie ahead, of course, but a positive start to his England career. 7
  • John Stones – Two matches in a short span will do the Manchester City defender a great benefit. Remains one of the first names on the starting lineup, fitness permitting. 7
  • The centre-back – Selected ahead of Marc Guehi and performed solidly. Executed an superb last-ditch recovery tackle in the closing period to boot. 7
  • Myles Lewis-Skelly – Looked a somewhat ring rusty at times, understandable given his lack of action at his club. An intriguing few months ahead. 6
  • The midfielder – Appears undroppable in this England team at the moment. Looks tailored for this level and has struck up an strong partnership with Rice. 7
  • The midfielder – Excelling in his number eight role. The backbone of England's midfield is demonstrating his offensive abilities now. Becoming a real all-round midfielder. 7
  • Morgan Rogers – Not as impactful as he has been in England's successes over previous opponents. We should find out next month who is the rightful holder of the number 10 shirt. 6
  • Arsenal's star – Added an setup to his brilliant goal against Wales last Thursday. Will be vital to England's hopes next summer. 7.5
  • Harry Kane – At his peak. Increased his count for the season to 20 goals. Has found the net 76 times for his country. Will he achieve 100? 8
  • The forward – Sharp finish to get the ball rolling for England here in away. Has done a good job during this break. 7.5

Subs' Impact

  • The experienced midfielder (for Rice 60) – Kept play flowing in midfield. 6
  • Crystal Palace's star (for Rogers 60) – Well-executed goal and a threat. 7
  • West Ham's attacker (for Saka 60) – Battles on his hands to earn a place when all are available. 6
  • Dan Burn (for Stones 71) – As you'd expect, managed everything aerially. 6
  • The forward (for Gordon 71) – One pacy run down the left was noticeable. 6

With their place booked, the squad can now prepare for the upcoming tournament with confidence.

Michael Sanchez
Michael Sanchez

A seasoned travel writer and photographer with a passion for uncovering unique cultural experiences around the globe.