Squad Assessments: The Three Lions Win Secured by Kane's Double in International Qualifying Match
During a dominant performance, the English national team clinched a further triumph versus their opponents, with a number of squad members turning in notable performances during the match.
First-choice Eleven
Dean Henderson Was rarely tested required in the first half before called into action from Arbër Hoxha’s bent shot. A sliding tackle on an Albanian attacker demonstrated excellent game intelligence. 6/10
Jarell Quansah Examined against Albania’s main danger in their forward. Operated through the middle initially but moved to the flank once a teammate entered the fray. 7/10
John Stones Advanced into midfield when in possession, as he has done in the past. Sometimes was too casual when carrying play and the approach discontinued at half-time. 6
The tall defender A constant threat from dead balls, typically, perhaps is another option to Stones at the back instead of alongside him. A loose ball later in the match nearly resulted in a goal from the visitors. 6
Nico O’Reilly A further assured display by the youngster following his first cap against another side. Saka was unable to take the opportunity from an exquisite backheel behind the Albania defence. His position is firmly his so soon. Seven
The newcomer His first start with the national team. Slightly careless on the ball however his dangerous set-pieces posed a danger. A useful game manager available to the coach to call upon against sides that sit back. Cautioned for a rash foul. 6
Declan Rice Set-pieces from corners and free-kicks caused problems. Had freedom to move on the left yet found himself in an offside position as the pass came in shooting positions. Granted a merited rest after an hour. 6
The star midfielder Functioned in an advanced position on the right and also contributed with the hard yards. Displayed glimpses of brilliance but dragged an attempt over. Substituted towards the end by Rogers, his competition, after receiving a caution. 7/10
The winger Had the team's clearest opportunity before halftime, his effort excellently kept out by the Albanian keeper. With Quansah hanging back, he had to offer an outlet on the right yet his deliveries into the box varied in quality. Taken off for the final quarter-hour. 6
Harry Kane The difference-maker netting two more goals in an England shirt. The first a classic close-range tap-in while the second an excellent headed goal having drifted away off his defender. Aged 32, he continues to improve and England have every chance in future competitions when he's in the team. 8/10
Eberechi Eze Had difficulty to get into the game on the left flank. Was presented with a good opening when set up by the midfielder however Strakosha made the save. His replacement produced a bigger influence when substituted. Five
Bench Players
- Foden (replacing Rice on 63 minutes) Looked lively and combined seamlessly with the striker in more familiar role, 6/10
- Saka (on for Eze 63) Missed opportunities although his set-piece provided the opener, Six
- Marcus Rashford (for Bowen 75) Active upon introduction and provided the second goal with a brilliant delivery to the back post, 7
- Anderson (on for the midfielder 75) Seems settled already, 6
- Rogers (for the star with minutes remaining) Insufficient minutes to make an impact, 6