🔗 Share this article Player Evaluations: The Three Lions Book Their Place for 2026 World Cup Gareth Southgate's side clinched their spot at the 2026 World Cup with a convincing triumph over Latvia on the midweek fixture. First Eleven Performance England's number one – Pulled off a couple of fine stops in the second half to preserve his impressive clean sheet record. It's now nine in a row. 6.5 The full-back – Seems at home in international football seamlessly. More challenging tests await, of course, but a positive start to his England career. 7 John Stones – Two matches in five days will do the City defender a lot of good. Remains one of the first names on the roster, fitness permitting. 7 Ezri Konsa – Selected ahead of the other option and performed solidly. Made an excellent last-ditch recovery tackle in the second half to boot. 7 The young defender – Appeared a somewhat off the pace at times, expected given his limited game time at his club. An intriguing few months ahead. 6 Newcastle's star – Looks essential in this England team at the moment. Seems tailored for this level and has formed an productive partnership with Rice. 7 Arsenal's engine – Enjoying his attacking role. The pillar of England's midfield is demonstrating his attacking abilities now. Developing into a real all-round midfielder. 7 The forward – Not as impactful as he has been in England's victories over other teams. We should find out next month who is the true owner of the number 10 shirt. 6 Arsenal's star – Added an assist to his excellent goal against Wales last Thursday. Will be crucial to England's hopes next summer. 7.5 The striker – Playing brilliantly. Boosted his total for the season to 20 goals. Has scored 76 goals for his country. Will he achieve 100? 8 Newcastle's attacker – Sharp finish to open the scoring for England here in away. Has acquitted himself well during this fixture period. 7.5 England Substitutes The experienced midfielder (for Rice 60) – Maintained the tempo in midfield. 6 Crystal Palace's star (for Rogers 60) – Well-executed goal and a danger. 7 The winger (for Saka 60) – Faces competition on his hands to be selected when the squad is full. 6 The defender (for Stones 71) – As you'd expect, managed everything in the air. 6 The forward (for Gordon 71) – A speedy dash down the left caught the eye. 6 After their place confirmed, England can now turn their attention for the World Cup with high hopes.