Best 15Englandof the 2020s

Generational all-action midfielder who became a central England figure after an outstanding 2022 World Cup, scoring against Iran and excelling in the knockout stage.

England captain and elite goalscorer who won the Golden Boot in European qualifying and scored twice during England's run to the 2022 World Cup quarter-finals.

World-class right winger and one of England's leading 2020s attackers, scoring three goals and consistently threatening defenses at the 2022 World Cup.

England's dominant holding midfielder throughout the decade, starting every match and providing control, ball progression and defensive security at Qatar 2022.

Technically exceptional and tactically versatile playmaker who registered a goal and two assists after entering England's starting side at the 2022 World Cup.

Elite recovery defender whose exceptional speed and one-on-one ability made him England's preferred option against the strongest opposing attackers.

Composed ball-playing center-back who started all five of England's 2022 World Cup matches and was fundamental to their buildup play and defensive structure.

Established international star who entered the decade as one of England's most important attackers and contributed a goal and assist at the 2022 World Cup.

Explosive forward who scored three times in Qatar, including an excellent free kick against Wales, despite starting only one match at the tournament.

High-level creative winger whose close control and ability to retain possession made him a valuable game-changing option; he also scored against Iran in 2022.

England's first-choice left-back, offering balanced defending and progressive attacking play while starting every match of the 2022 World Cup campaign.

England's undisputed tournament goalkeeper, recording three clean sheets in five games at the 2022 World Cup and providing reliable distribution and shot-stopping.

A consistently important tournament defender for England who overcame club-level doubts to produce commanding displays and an assist at Qatar 2022.

Energetic attacking midfielder who began the 2022 World Cup as a starter and contributed pressing, movement and creative link play during England's campaign.

Experienced leader whose introduction strengthened England's midfield balance at the 2022 World Cup; he started all three knockout-stage matches and scored against Senegal.