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

The national team secured their berth at the global tournament with a convincing triumph over their opponents on the midweek fixture.

First Eleven Performance

  • Jordan Pickford – Pulled off a few of fine stops in the second half to extend his impressive clean sheet record. It's now nine in a row. 6.5
  • The defender – Has adapted to international football with ease. More challenging tests lie ahead, of course, but a promising start to his England career. 7
  • The defender – Two matches in less than a week will do the Manchester City defender a great benefit. Still one of the key players on the roster, fitness permitting. 7
  • The centre-back – Chosen ahead of his competitor and was flawless. Executed an superb last-ditch recovery tackle in the closing period to boot. 7
  • Myles Lewis-Skelly – Looked a little not at his best at times, understandable given his lack of action at his club. An promising few months ahead. 6
  • The midfielder – Looks essential in this England team at the moment. Appears suited to this level and has formed an productive partnership with Rice. 7
  • The midfielder – Enjoying his advanced midfield role. The mainstay of England's midfield is showing his attacking abilities now. Emerging as a genuine all-round midfielder. 7
  • The forward – Quieter as he has been in England's victories over previous opponents. It will be revealed next month who is the leading candidate of the number 10 shirt. 6
  • Arsenal's star – Added an key pass to his brilliant goal against Wales last Thursday. Will be key to England's hopes next summer. 7.5
  • The captain – At his peak. Boosted his total for the season to 20 goals. Has hit the back of the net 76 times for his country. Can he reach 100? 8
  • Anthony Gordon – Clinical finish to open the scoring for England here in Riga. Has done a good job during this international window. 7.5

Subs' Impact

  • The veteran (for Rice 60) – Kept things moving in midfield. 6
  • The playmaker (for Rogers 60) – Excellently taken goal and a danger. 7
  • West Ham's attacker (for Saka 60) – Battles on his hands to earn a place when everyone's fit. 6
  • Newcastle's full-back (for Stones 71) – Predictably, managed everything with his height. 6
  • Marcus Rashford (for Gordon 71) – A speedy dash down the left was noticeable. 6

With their place secured, the team can now prepare for the World Cup with confidence.

Ashley Duran
Ashley Duran

Cybersecurity expert and tech writer focused on digital privacy and secure data management strategies.