🔗 Share this article Squad Assessments: England Book Their Place for the Upcoming Tournament Gareth Southgate's side earned their spot at the next World Cup with a decisive win over their opponents on the midweek fixture. The Starting Lineup The goalkeeper – Made a couple of excellent saves in the second half to preserve his remarkable clean sheet record. That's nine in a row. 6.5 The defender – Seems at home in international football seamlessly. More challenging tests lie ahead, of course, but a positive start to his England career. 7 Manchester City's centre-back – Two matches in less than a week will do the City defender a lot of good. Remains one of the automatic picks on the team-sheet, fitness permitting. 7 The centre-back – Selected ahead of Marc Guehi and was flawless. Made an excellent last-ditch recovery tackle in the second half to boot. 7 The young defender – Looked a somewhat off the pace at times, understandable given his scarce minutes at his club. An interesting few months ahead. 6 The midfielder – Looks essential in this England team at the moment. Appears tailored for this level and has struck up an strong partnership with Rice. 7 Declan Rice – Thriving in his attacking role. The pillar of England's midfield is showing his offensive abilities now. Emerging as a genuine all-round midfielder. 7 Morgan Rogers – Quieter as he has been in England's wins over previous opponents. We should find out next month who is the true owner of the number 10 shirt. 6 The winger – Contributed an key pass to his brilliant goal against Wales last Thursday. Will be key to England's chances next summer. 7.5 The captain – Playing brilliantly. Increased 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 Newcastle's attacker – Precise finish to get the ball rolling for England here in Riga. Has done a good job during this break. 7.5 England Substitutes The veteran (for Rice 60) – Kept things moving in midfield. 6 The playmaker (for Rogers 60) – Excellently taken goal and a threat. 7 Jarrod Bowen (for Saka 60) – Has a fight on his hands to make the squad when all are available. 6 The defender (for Stones 71) – Predictably, dealt with everything aerially. 6 The forward (for Gordon 71) – One pacy run down the left was noticeable. 6 With their place secured, the team can now prepare for the upcoming tournament with high hopes.