🔗 Share this article Squad Ratings: England Book Their Place for the Upcoming Tournament Gareth Southgate's side secured their place at the 2026 World Cup with a convincing victory over Latvia on Tuesday evening. The Starting Lineup England's number one – Pulled off a couple of excellent stops in the latter period to maintain his impressive clean sheet streak. It's now nine in a row. 6.5 Djed Spence – Has adapted to international football seamlessly. Tougher tests await, of course, but a good start to his England career. 7 Manchester City's centre-back – A pair of fixtures in a short span will do the City defender a great benefit. Still one of the automatic picks on the starting lineup, fitness permitting. 7 Aston Villa's defender – Chosen ahead of the other option and was flawless. Made an outstanding last-ditch recovery tackle in the later stages to boot. 7 Arsenal's talent – Looked a somewhat not at his best at times, expected given his lack of action at his club. An promising few months ahead. 6 Elliott Anderson – Appears essential in this England team at the moment. Looks suited to this level and has struck up an excellent partnership with Rice. 7 Declan Rice – Excelling in his advanced midfield role. The mainstay of England's midfield is displaying his offensive abilities now. Developing into a genuine all-round midfielder. 7 The attacker – Less influential as he has been in England's successes over previous opponents. The answer will come next month who is the rightful holder of the number 10 shirt. 6 Bukayo Saka – Contributed an key pass to his brilliant goal against Wales last Thursday. Will be key to England's hopes next summer. 7.5 The striker – Playing brilliantly. Boosted his total for the season to 20 scores. Has scored 76 times for his country. Can he reach 100? 8 Anthony Gordon – Precise 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) – Maintained the tempo in midfield. 6 Eberechi Eze (for Rogers 60) – Well-executed goal and a threat. 7 Jarrod Bowen (for Saka 60) – Battles on his hands to make the squad when all are available. 6 Newcastle's full-back (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 confirmed, the squad can now prepare for the upcoming tournament with optimism.