Player Ratings: The Three Lions Book Their Place for the Upcoming Tournament
The national team secured their berth at the global tournament with a convincing win over the Baltic side on the midweek fixture.
England's Starting XI
- The goalkeeper – Pulled off a few of fine stops in the latter period to maintain his remarkable clean sheet streak. It's now nine straight in a row. 6.5
- Djed Spence – Has taken to international football with ease. More challenging tests await, of course, but a good start to his England career. 7
- Manchester City's centre-back – Two games in a short span will do the Manchester City defender a lot of good. Remains one of the first names on the team-sheet, fitness permitting. 7
- The centre-back – Chosen ahead of Marc Guehi and was flawless. Executed an superb last-ditch recovery tackle in the later stages to boot. 7
- Myles Lewis-Skelly – Appeared a little off the pace at times, expected given his limited game time at his club. An intriguing few months ahead. 6
- The midfielder – Appears undroppable in this England team at the moment. Looks made for this level and has formed an productive partnership with Rice. 7
- Arsenal's engine – Thriving in his advanced midfield role. The pillar of England's midfield is displaying his attacking abilities now. Becoming a real all-round midfielder. 7
- The attacker – Quieter as he has been in England's victories over previous opponents. The answer will come next month who is the leading candidate of the number 10 shirt. 6
- The winger – Provided an key pass to his brilliant goal against Wales last Thursday. Will be vital to England's prospects next summer. 7.5
- Harry Kane – Playing brilliantly. Increased his tally for the season to 20 strikes. Has found the net 76 times for his country. Is 100 possible 100? 8
- Newcastle's attacker – Clinical finish to get the ball rolling for England here in Riga. Has performed admirably during this international window. 7.5
Subs' Impact
- The veteran (for Rice 60) – Kept play flowing in midfield. 6
- The playmaker (for Rogers 60) – Well-executed goal and a danger. 7
- Jarrod Bowen (for Saka 60) – Faces competition on his hands to earn a place when the squad is full. 6
- Newcastle's full-back (for Stones 71) – As you'd expect, handled everything aerially. 6
- Manchester United's star (for Gordon 71) – A speedy dash down the left was noticeable. 6
With qualification confirmed, the team can now focus for the World Cup with optimism.