England secured their spot at the global tournament with a convincing triumph over their opponents on the midweek fixture.
The Starting Lineup
- The goalkeeper – Made a few of fine stops in the second half to extend his remarkable clean sheet record. It's now nine consecutive in a row. 6.5
- Djed Spence – Has taken to international football seamlessly. Sterner tests await, of course, but a positive start to his England career. 7
- John Stones – A pair of fixtures in less than a week will do the City defender a lot of good. Still one of the first names on the team-sheet, fitness permitting. 7
- Aston Villa's defender – Chosen ahead of the other option and was flawless. Made an superb last-ditch recovery tackle in the closing period to boot. 7
- The young defender – Looked a somewhat ring rusty at times, expected given his scarce minutes at Arsenal. An interesting few months ahead. 6
- Newcastle's star – Seems undroppable in this England team at the moment. Looks suited to this level and has formed an productive partnership with Rice. 7
- The midfielder – Excelling in his advanced midfield role. The mainstay of England's midfield is showing his creative abilities now. Becoming a real all-round midfielder. 7
- The attacker – Less influential as he has been in England's successes over Serbia and Wales. It will be revealed next month who is the leading candidate of the number 10 shirt. 6
- Bukayo Saka – Provided an key pass 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. Took his count for the season to 20 goals. Has scored 76 occasions for his country. Will he achieve 100? 8
- Anthony Gordon – Clinical finish to get the ball rolling for England here in the Latvian capital. Has acquitted himself well during this international window. 7.5
The Bench Players
- The experienced midfielder (for Rice 60) – Kept things moving in midfield. 6
- Crystal Palace's star (for Rogers 60) – Well-executed goal and a danger. 7
- The winger (for Saka 60) – Faces competition on his hands to make the squad when all are available. 6
- The defender (for Stones 71) – As you'd expect, dealt with everything aerially. 6
- Manchester United's star (for Gordon 71) – A quick burst down the left was noticeable. 6
With a World Cup spot booked, the team can now prepare for next summer with high hopes.
