England's World Cup campaign has been a mixed bag, with standout performances from Jude Bellingham and Harry Kane, while Anthony Gordon and Reece James have had forgettable tournaments. Thomas Tuchel's squad showed inconsistency across three group matches, beginning with a 4-0 thrashing of Croatia, followed by a goalless draw against Ghana, and a victory over Panama to top the group. They now face DR Congo in the knockout stage.
Winners
Jude Bellingham
Bellingham has been England's biggest winner, delivering world-class displays in midfield. He could have been man of the match in all three games, earning the accolade twice. His performances have carried the team, showcasing versatility in different midfield roles.
Harry Kane
Kane scored three goals, becoming England's record goalscorer in World Cups and overall. Despite an off night against Ghana, he remains a crucial leader. However, his tendency to drop deep has been noted, with calls for him to stay in the box.
Elliot Anderson
Anderson has impressed Tuchel, dismissing transfer speculation to deliver consistent performances. His composure on the ball has justified his £116 million price tag.
Declan Rice
Rice was solid in the first game, laboured in the second, and his absence in the third highlighted his importance. He is a must-start for Tuchel, especially given the injury concerns in the squad.
Marc Guehi
Guehi's quality was evident when he didn't play, as England missed his composure and strength in defence. He calms the backline and is a top-quality player.
Ezri Konsa
Konsa has been consistent and reliable, playing multiple roles for Tuchel. Despite lacking recognition, he is a key defender.
Nico O'Reilly
O'Reilly was harshly dropped after the first game but improved England's left side in the third. He is aggressive, technically sound, and deserves a place.
Noni Madueke
Madueke has looked sharp and dangerous, though end product remains a concern. He has been lively from the start and off the bench.
Marcus Rashford
Rashford scored as a finisher in the first game and started well in the third. He is in better form than Gordon but still needs to convince Tuchel.
Bukayo Saka
Saka made an impact as a substitute in the first game, but fitness issues around his Achilles have affected his starting performances. He still exudes quality.
Ivan Toney
Though yet to play, Toney's reputation has grown. His penalty-taking and aura could be vital in the knockout stages.
Losers
Jordan Pickford
Pickford has looked shaky, taking too long in possession and eager to come off his line. His usual solidity has been missing.
Dean Henderson
Henderson won't get playing time now, as Tuchel couldn't rest Pickford after the Ghana draw.
James Trafford
Trafford is unlikely to feature, as Tuchel couldn't afford to rotate.
Dan Burn
Burn has not played a minute but has enjoyed the experience, posting on Instagram about his adventure.
Djed Spence
Spence is near the top of the full-back pecking order but hasn't grasped his opportunity. Tuchel wants more from him.
Jarell Quansah
Quansah suffered an ankle injury after starting against Panama, a major setback.
Trevoh Chalobah
Chalobah is unlikely to play, and it's surprising he wasn't considered at right-back over Quansah.
Reece James
James, tired of discussing his fitness, is now racing to recover from a hamstring strain that threatens his tournament involvement.
John Stones
Stones convinced Tuchel to start against Croatia but was exposed for the equaliser and has been benched twice since.
Kobbie Mainoo
Mainoo has not played a minute, a disappointment after being expected to start against Panama with Rice rested.
Jordan Henderson
Henderson has played just six minutes, contributing to squad harmony but unlikely to feature more due to midfield depth.
Anthony Gordon
Gordon struggled against Ghana and was underwhelming against Croatia. His £69 million move to Barcelona is now questioned.
Eberechi Eze
Eze has had minutes but made no real impact, even when England needed to break down defences.
Ollie Watkins
Watkins played just six minutes against Panama, despite Kane's poor performance against Ghana.
