Player Evaluations: The Three Lions Triumph Secured by Harry Kane's Brace in World Cup Qualifier
In a dominant performance, England clinched another victory versus Albania, with a number of squad members turning in notable displays during the match.
First-choice Eleven
Dean Henderson Had little to do to perform before the break before forced to intervene from Arbër Hoxha’s bent shot. His sliding tackle against Qazim Laci highlighted his reading of the game. 6/10
Jarell Quansah Challenged by Albania’s main danger in Hoxha. Played more centrally early on but moved to the flank after Saka came on. 7/10
The defender Advanced forward when in possession, as he has done in the past. Sometimes lacked urgency in possession with the experiment abandoned at half-time. 6
Dan Burn A nuisance on corners and free-kicks, typically, but may be another option for Stones at the back instead of paired with him. A loose distribution after the break nearly resulted in the first goal from Albania. Six
The young full-back One more composed showing by the youngster after his initial appearance against another side. Saka was unable to take the most of a clever flick behind the opposing backline. The left-back spot looks secure so soon. Seven
The newcomer His maiden beginning for his country. A bit sloppy in possession however his dangerous deliveries caused problems. A useful game manager available to the coach to utilize versus teams who drop deep. Shown a yellow for a rash challenge. 6
Declan Rice Crosses from dead balls and set-plays were dangerous. Was given freedom to move down the left flank only to be in an offside position as the pass came in front of goal. Given a well-earned substitution around the 60-minute point. 6
Jude Bellingham Played in a high position on the right while also did plenty of dirty work. Displayed glimpses of brilliance and scuffed an effort high. Withdrawn late on by a teammate, his rival, after receiving a caution. 7/10
The winger Was presented with the team's top opening in the opening period, his effort smartly stopped from the Albanian keeper. As Quansah hanging back, he was forced to provide width down the right side although his balls into the box were hit and miss. Replaced late in the match. 6/10
The captain The decisive figure with his 77th and 78th finishes at international level. The opener a typical opportunist's goal while the second a classy finish with his head having drifted away away from the opposition. Now 32, he’s only getting better with the national team are strong contenders in future competitions when he's in the team. 8/10
The attacker Found it tough to make an impact out wide. Had a decent opportunity following a pass from a teammate however the keeper denied him. His replacement made much more of an impact when substituted. 5/10
Substitutes
- Phil Foden (for Rice 63) Looked lively connecting well with Kane in a preferred position, Six
- Bukayo Saka (for the winger at the 63-minute mark) Spurned chances although his set-piece created the opener, 6
- Rashford (for Bowen 75) Lively after coming on and provided the second goal with superb cross to the far post, 7/10
- Elliot Anderson (on for Wharton 75) Looks established already, 6
- Morgan Rogers (replacing the star 84) Insufficient minutes to influence the game, 6