England Player Ratings: Saka 'Untouchable' as Eze Battles for World Cup Spot
In our weekly series, Chief Football Writer John Cross provides his latest England player ratings for Thomas Tuchel's World Cup 2026 squad. The analysis follows the North London Derby, offering insights into key players' form and their prospects for the upcoming tournament.
Bukayo Saka: The Undisputed Leader
Bukayo Saka remains one of the first names on the England team sheet, despite this not being a vintage season by his exceptionally high standards. However, the Arsenal winger returned to his best in the North London derby win at Tottenham on Sunday. Saka was terrific, wearing the armband, setting the tone, and showcasing great personality and leadership—aspects of his game that are sometimes underappreciated.
He is part of Arsenal's leadership group, was a leader under Gareth Southgate, and is a figure current players look up to. If you had to name the first picks for the squad, they would include Harry Kane, Jude Bellingham, Bukayo Saka, Declan Rice, Jordan Pickford, and Marc Guehi. Saka's consistency and reliability always deliver for the Three Lions, making him one of England's untouchables.
Match rating: 8/10 – His best performance in some time, shining and leading by example. This was a statement that Arsenal are back in the title race, with Saka setting the tone.
Current form: 6/10 – Mixed, but he has a new contract and is Arsenal's crown jewel. His high standards drive expectations.
England squad rating: 9/10 – Absolutely no doubt he is in the starting XI and squad, solidifying his untouchable status.
Declan Rice: The Driving Force
Declan Rice had a more average game in the derby, with a rare mistake gifting Tottenham an equaliser. However, his determination to put things right was evident, and he succeeded. The biggest worry for England is whether he will ever tire, given his many games played with heart, intensity, and energy.
He is likely to be Arsenal's Player of the Year and, if Arsenal win the title, should be Footballer of the Year. Rice is stitched on for the England starting line-up, full of energy and power, and will be England's driving force in the United States.
Match rating: 6/10 – A standout performance marred by one mistake, but he showed resilience.
Current form: 6/10 – Consistent, but concerns over fatigue persist due to his high workload.
England squad rating: 9/10 – A guaranteed starter, essential for England's midfield dynamism.
Eberechi Eze: Fighting for a Spot
Eberechi Eze delivered a game-changing performance with two goals and a marauding display, covering every blade of grass with quality. He revels in the central No10 role, and anything else is a compromise. However, his path to the World Cup squad is tight, as he competes with Jude Bellingham, Morgan Rogers, Phil Foden, Cole Palmer, and Morgan Gibbs-White for limited spots.
Only Bellingham and Rogers look guaranteed, with possibly one other place available. Eze must prove his worth in a crowded market, making his inclusion a close call.
Match rating: 8/10 – A wow performance, changing the game with goals and energy.
Current form: 6/10 – Good in the FA Cup but dropped at Wolves, then proving his point against Tottenham.
England squad rating: 6/10 – A tight call due to intense competition in the No10 position.
Other Key Players: Struggles and Surprises
Djed Spence struggled at left wing-back, overwhelmed defensively by Saka. His chances of making the cut are fading, with a dip in form and confidence. Match rating: 5/10, Current form: 6/10, England squad rating: 5/10.
Conor Gallagher could not handle Arsenal's midfield, chasing shadows and lacking bite. His return to the Premier League for World Cup preparation has not met the required level. Match rating: 5/10, Current form: 6/10, England squad rating: 4/10.
Full England Player Ratings Overview
John Cross's latest ratings rank players out of 10 based on their likelihood to make the England squad. Key highlights include:
- Goalkeepers: Jordan Pickford (10/10), Dean Henderson (8/10), Nick Pope (6/10).
- Defenders: Marc Guehi and Ezri Konsa (9/10 each), with Konsa loved by Tuchel.
- Midfielders: Declan Rice, Elliot Anderson, Jordan Henderson (9/10 each).
- Forwards: Bukayo Saka (9/10), Anthony Gordon and Marcus Rashford (8/10 each).
- Strikers: Harry Kane (10/10), Ollie Watkins (8/10).
This analysis provides a comprehensive look at England's prospects for the 2026 World Cup, with Saka leading the charge and players like Eze facing tough competition. Fans are encouraged to share their opinions on the squad selections.
