Player Evaluations: England Victory Sealed by Harry Kane's Double in World Cup Qualifying Match
Throughout a commanding showing, England wrapped up one more triumph against Albania, featuring multiple squad members producing memorable performances on the pitch.
Starting Lineup
Dean Henderson Not a save to perform during the opening 45 but then called into action from an opponent's bent shot. His sliding tackle against Qazim Laci highlighted sharp reading of the game. 6/10
Jarell Quansah Tested against Albania’s biggest threat in their forward. Started more centrally to begin with later drifted out wide after Saka came on. 7
John Stones Advanced up the pitch with the ball at his feet, something he's known for before. On occasion was too casual on the ball with the experiment was shelved after the break. Six
The tall defender A nuisance from dead balls, as always, but may be a replacement to Stones at the back rather than paired with him. A careless pass after the break nearly resulted in a goal for Albania. 6
Nico O’Reilly A further confident display by the rising star after his initial appearance versus Serbia. Saka was unable to take full advantage of an exquisite backheel behind their defense. The left-back spot is firmly his at this stage. Seven
The newcomer His first start for his country. A bit careless in possession however his whipped set-pieces caused problems. A useful pace-controller for the manager to utilize against teams who drop deep. Cautioned for a rash challenge. Six
Declan Rice Deliveries from corners and free kicks were dangerous. Enjoyed freedom to move on the left but was offside as the pass came with a chance to score. Given a deserved rest on the hour mark. 6/10
Jude Bellingham Operated in a high position on the right and also put in the hard yards. Demonstrated moments of class and dragged an attempt wide. Withdrawn towards the end for Rogers, his rival, following a yellow card. 7/10
The winger Had England’s top opening in the opening period, his effort well saved from the Albanian keeper. As Quansah staying deep, it fell to him to offer an outlet out wide but his crosses from wide areas varied in quality. Replaced late in the match. Six
The captain The match-winner with his two more strikes for his country. His first a trademark poacher’s finish and the second an excellent header after peeling away off his defender. At 32, he’s only getting better with the national team are strong contenders in future competitions with him up top. 8/10
Eberechi Eze Had difficulty to get into the game on the left flank. Had a presentable chance when set up by the midfielder however Strakosha kept it out. Rashford made much more of influence in his place. 5
Substitutes
- Phil Foden (replacing a teammate 63) Appeared sharp connecting well with Kane in a preferred position, 6/10
- Saka (on for the winger 63) Missed opportunities although his set-piece provided the opener, Six
- Rashford (replacing Bowen 75) Lively when brought on and provided the captain's brace via an excellent ball to the back post, 7
- Elliot Anderson (on for the midfielder 75) Looks established so soon, 6
- Morgan Rogers (replacing the star with minutes remaining) Insufficient minutes to affect things, 6