England Player Ratings: 'Cheat code Nico O'Reilly has become Man City's N'Golo Kante'

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A while ago there was actually a debate.

Now, it looks like a formality. Nico O’Reilly has not only nailed down his place in England’s starting XI but will go to the World Cup as one of the most exciting and in-form players in the squad.

If there was a discussion between O’Reilly and Newcastle’s Lewis Hall then there isn’t now. Manchester City star O’Reilly has spent a fair chunk of this season playing in midfield.

Now it is like he is playing in two positions from left back: full back, midfielder and then also all over the pitch. He has become City’s N’Golo Kante.

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He covers every blade of grass and just looks sensational. He is strong, closes players down and gets forward. He dominates games from full back.

He was amazing against Arsenal. How very strange that we have such clear contenders to be Football Writers’ Association Footballer of the Year.

Arsenal’s Declan Rice and Manchester United's Bruno Fernandes are having an incredible seasons and are rightly getting so many plaudits. But ideally the winner comes from a team which claims trophies and that is why it is hard to fathom who is City’s standout candidate.

Erling Haaland has scored lots of goals. Marc Guehi and Antoine Semenyo have been transformative signings. Rayan Cherki is so entertaining.

But O’Reilly should be right up there. He has scored big goals, played in big games and shown that he belongs on the big stage.

There are less than two months to go until England boss Thomas Tuchel has to pick his final England squad for this summer’s World Cup - and he has huge competition in almost every position.

Some of the best players in the Premier League and Europe are vying for the same spots as the countdown to the 2026 tournament hots up, while others have ground to make up before the season ends.

Here, Cross gives his latest verdict on the players he saw live on Sunday during Manchester City’s 2-1 win over Arsenal - and the squad overall. There’s the chance to have your say in the article below - so get involved.

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Match rating: 8/10

Strong, determined and powerful. He found a way out of tight corners, takes the ball under pressure and just looks dynamite.

Current form: 9/10

He is in sensational form. Arguably the most in-form English player in the Premier League right now. Yes, that good.

England squad rating: 9/10

Nailed-on for the squad and has streaked ahead of Lewis Hall in the battle to be the starter at left back.

Match rating: 8/10

Another cool performance and he plays with such calmness and composure that he settles the whole team down.

Current form: 8/10

If City win the Treble - then he will have played a huge part. He looks class and also can play with any partner.

England squad rating: 9/10

A nailed-on starter. He is so calm, composed and reassuring at the back for England. Top quality.

Match rating: 5/10

Another late cameo appearance as he came on for Rayan Cherki. Unfortunately, his minutes as a sub are getting fewer as Cherki’s influence grows.

Current form: 5/10

Is just not getting time to shine. No-one doubts his talent or quality - but will take a big change in fortune to get in. Is slipping behind.

England squad rating: 5/10

It could come down to a shoot-out between Foden and Cole Palmer for the third No10 role… and Palmer is ahead.

Do you agree with John Cross? Have your say with our England Squad Slider - in or out - below

Match rating: 7/10

Undoubtedly one of Arsenal’s best players at the Etihad. Rice covered every blade of grass. He was all action and was back to his best - but just could not inspire Arsenal to a result.

Current form: 8/10

In superb form. And even when he was not feeling at his best against Sporting Lisbon, he pushed through and played. He was terrific even then. The only worry is burnout. He’s given everything.

England squad rating: 9/10

Absolutely nailed on starter and England desperately need him to be fit, fresh and ready to stand a chance at the World Cup.

Match rating: 7/10

Here’s why he stood out. He played on the left of midfield - rather than left wing - but did a good job and also worked well with Martin Odegaard. He sacrificed himself for the team and also showed that he can play in different roles and be versatile.

Current form: 8/10

Arsenal need him for his drive, quality and game intelligence. Here’s the thing - he has been in and out of the team. Did Arsenal really need him last summer? Maybe not. But through his determination, he has proved they do now.

England squad rating: 7/10

His chances have grown. Shone he can be versatile, play different roles and that may actually give him an edge over some rivals. Is coming on strong.

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Match rating: 5/10

Hooked at half time. Did not play well. Is out of form and is not making things happen. He also does not provide as much defensive cover as Gabriel Martinelli.

Current form: 5/10

Dipped badly. He looks a player struggling with his team struggling. He is slipping and must regain form quickly. Bukayo Saka is naturally ahead but Jarrod Bowen is usurping him.

England squad rating: 6/10

His dip in form has seen him drop to third in a two-horse race.

Match rating: 6/10

It is probably an indictment of where White is that Arsenal started with Cristhian Mosquera as a makeshift right back rather than a natural right back. Why? Because White has been off the boil and Mosquera is a better defender.

Current form: 5/10

Arsenal have needed him during Jurrien Timber’s absence and yet he has not really grasped the opportunity. White is a good player but is actually still building up after injury lay-offs and has yet to rediscover his best form.

England squad rating: 5/10

An unlikely shout. I thought he did his chances good in the final two Wembley friendlies but actually he has gone backwards.

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