🔗 Share this article Squad Assessments: England Qualify for the Next World Cup England clinched their spot at the next World Cup with a comfortable win over Latvia on the midweek fixture. England's Starting XI The goalkeeper – Pulled off a couple of fine stops in the latter period to maintain his impressive clean sheet streak. That's nine consecutive in a row. 6.5 The defender – Has adapted to international football with ease. More challenging tests lie ahead, of course, but a positive start to his England career. 7 John Stones – A pair of fixtures in five days will do the City defender a great benefit. Remains one of the automatic picks on the team-sheet, fitness permitting. 7 Aston Villa's defender – Selected ahead of his competitor and was flawless. Made an superb last-ditch recovery tackle in the closing period to boot. 7 Myles Lewis-Skelly – Appeared a somewhat off the pace at times, expected given his scarce minutes at Arsenal. An promising few months ahead. 6 Elliott Anderson – Seems essential in this England team at the moment. Appears made for this level and has developed an strong partnership with Rice. 7 The midfielder – Thriving in his number eight role. The mainstay of England's midfield is showing his attacking abilities now. Developing into a true all-round midfielder. 7 The forward – Not as impactful as he has been in England's victories over Serbia and Wales. It will be revealed next month who is the true owner of the number 10 shirt. 6 The winger – Added an assist to his brilliant goal against Wales last Thursday. Will be key to England's chances next summer. 7.5 The striker – At his peak. Increased his count for the season to 20 scores. Has scored 76 occasions for his country. Will he achieve 100? 8 Anthony Gordon – Precise finish to start things off for England here in the Latvian capital. Has performed admirably during this break. 7.5 The Bench Players The veteran (for Rice 60) – Maintained the tempo in midfield. 6 Eberechi Eze (for Rogers 60) – Excellently taken goal and a menace. 7 The winger (for Saka 60) – Faces competition on his hands to make the squad when everyone's fit. 6 Dan Burn (for Stones 71) – Predictably, dealt with everything with his height. 6 The forward (for Gordon 71) – A quick burst down the left was noticeable. 6 After their place secured, the squad can now turn their attention for the upcoming tournament with optimism.