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England's player ratings are in following their match against Japan, with manager Thomas Tuchel taking one last look at his squad before finalising the group for the World Cup.

The ratings by FourFourTwo come after England's disappointing loss to the Samurai Blue. This fixture served as Tuchel’s final opportunity to evaluate his players before submitting his England squad for the 2026 World Cup. While Japan are not considered among the favourites, they remain a dangerous side, and this game provided a meaningful challenge for the Three Lions.

So, who strengthened their case and who may be facing a tough omission in the coming weeks? A reminder – players are rated only if they played at least 10 minutes of regulation time, meaning substitutes entering after the 80th minute are not included, to ensure fairness.

Goalkeeper Jordan Pickford, as expected, looks set to start against Croatia in England’s opening World Cup match. The Everton shot-stopper showed excellent distribution and had little chance of preventing Kaoru Mitoma’s strike. There were no major revelations from his display – apart from showcasing England’s stylish new Nike goalkeeper kit.

Ben White again proved a dependable option. Though not as explosive as Reece James or Tino Livramento, and perhaps lacking the natural flair of Trent Alexander-Arnold, White delivered a solid performance. He offered a dependable overlap down the right flank and composure in possession, proving his inclusion is far from misplaced.

Ezri Konsa had a steady outing, though he might have done slightly more to prevent Mitoma’s opener. Still, his overall defensive contribution was solid, and he continues to build a good understanding with Marc Guehi at the back.

Marc Guehi, meanwhile, recovered calmly from an early mix-up with Pickford. The Crystal Palace defender continues to grow into a key role in Tuchel’s defensive setup. His partnership with Nico O'Reilly at Manchester City is also aiding his development and consistency on the left side of defence.

Nico O'Reilly looked composed on the ball and made several adventurous runs into midfield. He is emerging as one of the top two choices for the left-back spot heading into the summer, with Lewis Hall likely being his main competition.

Elliot Anderson displayed intent and drive, maintaining his positive form for England. Though initially troubled by Japan’s aggressive pressing, he gradually asserted control, even striking the crossbar. Overall, he was arguably England’s standout performer across much of the match.

Kobbie Mainoo brought calmness and control to the midfield double-pivot. His positional awareness and ability to drop deep to receive from defence were impressive. While Declan Rice is expected to start this summer, Mainoo offers a fresh dimension and delivered a convincing display in the middle of the park.

For Cole Palmer, it was a difficult evening. The Chelsea midfielder lost possession to Mitoma, who then scored on the counter. Palmer appeared eager to make amends but overcompensated, over-hitting a free-kick before half-time that encapsulated his frustrating night.

Morgan Rogers struggled to influence proceedings in the No.10 role during the first half, possibly due to the absence of a central focal point. He improved after Dominic Solanke came on, even flashing a shot over the bar late on. Still, the display did little to strengthen his case, and it’s hard not to wonder what Jude Bellingham might have brought to that position.

Phil Foden’s performance was another familiar story. Despite nearly 50 caps for England, he again drifted through the game without much impact. At Manchester City, Foden thrives under specific tactical instructions from Pep Guardiola – whether holding width, crashing the box, or driving play forward from midfield. But in Tuchel’s false nine role, he seemed disconnected from the team’s rhythm.

Anthony Gordon, given England’s past issues on the left flank and his uneven season at Newcastle United, had a chance to make an impression. He maintained his width effectively but struggled to connect with England’s attacking play, missing an opportunity to cement his place.

Among the substitutes, one player continued to show his reliability as Tuchel’s deputy to Reece James, though he had limited impact on this occasion. Another bright substitute impressed both on and off the ball, nearly beating Zion Suzuki at the near post in the 89th minute. The competition between him and O’Reilly for the left-back position remains close, with the Newcastle man perhaps offering slightly more defensively.

Another substitute added directness on the right flank, cutting inside and providing more threat than Palmer. Though he may not get many future chances to impress, he certainly enhanced his reputation here.

Dominic Solanke gave England a stronger physical presence up front without being particularly influential. His hold-up play was, however, a welcome addition.

Another late introduction tested Suzuki immediately with a shot, showing promise as a left-wing option for the summer. By performing slightly better than Gordon, he may have edged ahead in Tuchel’s pecking order for the Croatia match.

James Garner earned his second cap and looked composed, though he didn’t have much opportunity to impose himself. Dan Burn and Harry Maguire came on in the 81st minute but had little time to influence proceedings.