The national team secured their berth at the global tournament with a convincing victory over Latvia on Tuesday evening.
The Starting Lineup
- England's number one – Made a few of excellent stops in the latter period to maintain his remarkable clean sheet run. It's now nine consecutive in a row. 6.5
- The defender – Seems at home in international football with ease. More challenging tests await, of course, but a positive start to his England career. 7
- The defender – A pair of fixtures in five days will do the City defender a lot of good. Still one of the automatic picks on the team-sheet, fitness permitting. 7
- The centre-back – Selected ahead of his competitor and was flawless. Made an outstanding last-ditch recovery tackle in the closing period to boot. 7
- Arsenal's talent – Looked a somewhat off the pace at times, understandable given his lack of action at Arsenal. An interesting few months ahead. 6
- Newcastle's star – Seems undroppable in this England team at the moment. Appears made for this level and has formed an excellent partnership with Rice. 7
- The midfielder – Excelling in his number eight role. The pillar of England's midfield is showing his creative abilities now. Developing into a true all-round midfielder. 7
- The forward – Quieter as he has been in England's victories over other teams. It will be revealed next month who is the rightful holder of the number 10 shirt. 6
- Arsenal's star – Added an key pass to his superb goal against Wales last Thursday. Will be crucial to England's prospects next summer. 7.5
- Harry Kane – In the form of his life. Took his total for the season to 20 strikes. Has hit the back of the net 76 times for his country. Is 100 possible 100? 8
- The forward – Sharp finish to get the ball rolling for England here in away. Has done a good job during this international window. 7.5
England Substitutes
- The veteran (for Rice 60) – Maintained the tempo in midfield. 6
- Crystal Palace's star (for Rogers 60) – Well-executed goal and a menace. 7
- Jarrod Bowen (for Saka 60) – Battles on his hands to make the squad when everyone's fit. 6
- The defender (for Stones 71) – As you'd expect, managed everything in the air. 6
- Manchester United's star (for Gordon 71) – One pacy run down the left was noticeable. 6
After their place secured, the team can now turn their attention for the World Cup with optimism.
