🔗 Share this article Player Evaluations: The Three Lions Book Their Place for the Upcoming Tournament Gareth Southgate's side secured their berth at the global tournament with a convincing win over their opponents on Tuesday night. First Eleven Performance The goalkeeper – Made a couple of fine stops in the second half to preserve his impressive clean sheet record. That's nine consecutive in a row. 6.5 The full-back – Has adapted to international football like a duck to water. More challenging tests lie ahead, of course, but a promising start to his England career. 7 Manchester City's centre-back – A pair of fixtures in less than a week will do the City defender a world of good. Remains one of the key players on the starting lineup, fitness permitting. 7 Aston Villa's defender – Chosen ahead of the other option and performed solidly. Executed an superb last-ditch recovery tackle in the closing period to boot. 7 Arsenal's talent – Looked a little not at his best at times, expected 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 formed an productive partnership with Rice. 7 The midfielder – Enjoying his advanced midfield role. The pillar of England's midfield is demonstrating his offensive abilities now. Emerging as a genuine all-round midfielder. 7 The attacker – Quieter as he has been in England's successes over Serbia and Wales. We should find out next month who is the true owner of the number 10 shirt. 6 Arsenal's star – Provided an setup to his brilliant goal against Wales last Thursday. Will be crucial to England's hopes next summer. 7.5 The striker – In the form of his life. Boosted his total for the season to 20 goals. Has scored 76 occasions for his country. Will he achieve 100? 8 Newcastle's attacker – Sharp finish to start things off for England here in Riga. Has performed admirably during this fixture period. 7.5 England Substitutes The experienced midfielder (for Rice 60) – Kept things moving in midfield. 6 Eberechi Eze (for Rogers 60) – Well-executed goal and a danger. 7 The winger (for Saka 60) – Has a fight on his hands to earn a place when all are available. 6 Newcastle's full-back (for Stones 71) – As you'd expect, dealt with everything with his height. 6 Manchester United's star (for Gordon 71) – A speedy dash down the left stood out. 6 With qualification booked, the squad can now prepare for the World Cup with high hopes.