Squad Assessments: The Three Lions Victory Sealed by Kane's Brace in World Cup Qualifying Match
In a dominant display, the English national team clinched another victory against their opponents, featuring several players producing memorable displays on the pitch.
Starting Lineup
Dean Henderson Not a save to perform in the first half until called into action by Arbër Hoxha’s curling effort. One well-timed sliding tackle on an Albanian attacker demonstrated excellent reading of the game. Six out of ten
The debutant Examined by Albania’s main danger through Hoxha. Operated in a central role early on but moved out wide after a teammate entered the fray. 7
John Stones Moved into midfield on the ball, as he has done before. Sometimes seemed hesitant when carrying play with the approach abandoned by the interval. 6/10
The tall defender A constant threat from dead balls, as always, perhaps is a replacement to Stones in the backline as opposed to his partner. A careless ball later in the match nearly resulted in the first goal for Albania. 6
The young full-back Another confident display by the 20-year-old after his debut versus Serbia. A teammate failed to make the opportunity from a gorgeous touch over their defense. The left-back spot looks secure at this stage. 7
The newcomer His first start for his country. Slightly loose on the ball however his inswinging corners posed a danger. A handy game manager available to the manager to have against defensive opponents. Booked for a poorly timed challenge. Six
Declan Rice Crosses from corners and free-kicks caused problems. Enjoyed room to roam in left midfield only to be in an offside position as the pass came in front of goal. Given a deserved substitution on the hour mark. Six
The star midfielder Functioned in a high spot down the right and also did plenty of dirty work. Displayed moments of class and dragged a shot high. Replaced late on for a teammate, his rival, after receiving a caution. Seven
Jarrod Bowen Was presented with England’s top opening in the opening period, his effort smartly stopped from Thomas Strakosha. With Quansah hanging back, he had to offer an outlet out wide although his balls from the touchline varied in quality. Taken off with 15 to go. 6/10
Harry Kane The match-winner netting 77th and 78th goals for his country. The opener a typical close-range tap-in and the second a classy headed goal having drifted away off his defender. At 32, he continues to improve with the national team stand a real opportunity in the upcoming tournament with him leading the line. 8/10
The attacker Had difficulty to make an impact out wide. Was presented with a decent opportunity following a pass from a teammate but Strakosha made the save. His replacement produced a bigger influence in his place. Five
Replacements
- Phil Foden (replacing Rice on 63 minutes) Appeared sharp and combined seamlessly with the striker in more familiar role, 6/10
- Bukayo Saka (for Eze 63) Missed opportunities but his corner created the first goal, Six
- Marcus Rashford (replacing the attacker with 15 left) Active upon introduction and set up the second goal with superb cross to the back post, 7/10
- Elliot Anderson (for the midfielder 75) Appears comfortable at this level, 6/10
- Morgan Rogers (for Bellingham with minutes remaining) Not enough time to influence the game, Six