Squad Assessments: England Win Secured by Harry Kane's Double in World Cup Qualifier
In a dominant showing, England wrapped up one more triumph against Albania, with several players turning in memorable displays on the pitch.
First-choice XI
Dean Henderson Had little to do to perform during the opening 45 until tested by Arbër Hoxha’s curled attempt. One well-timed sliding intervention against an Albanian attacker showed excellent game intelligence. 6/10
Jarell Quansah Tested by the opposition's primary attacker through Hoxha. Played more centrally early on but moved wider once Saka was introduced. 7
The defender Advanced up the pitch when in possession, a familiar role before. On occasion lacked urgency on the ball with the tactic abandoned by the interval. 6
Dan Burn A nuisance from dead balls, per usual, perhaps is another option for Stones in defense instead of alongside him. A careless pass after the break nearly resulted in a goal for the visitors. Six
The young full-back One more composed showing by the rising star after his initial appearance against another side. Saka did not capitalize on the opportunity from an exquisite flick behind the opposing backline. The role is firmly his already. 7
The newcomer His first start with the national team. Somewhat careless in possession though his inswinging deliveries caused problems. An effective game manager available to the boss to have against sides that sit back. Cautioned after a reckless challenge. 6/10
Declan Rice Crosses from dead balls and free kicks were dangerous. Enjoyed freedom to move on the left but was offside upon receiving with a chance to score. Given a well-earned rest around the 60-minute point. Six
The star midfielder Functioned in an advanced position on the right and put in dirty work. Displayed flashes of quality and dragged a shot over. Withdrawn late on for a teammate, his competition, after being booked. Seven
Jarrod Bowen Was presented with the team's best chance of the first half, his shot excellently kept out from the opposing goalkeeper. With a teammate hanging back, he was forced to provide width down the right side but his crosses from wide areas were inconsistent. Taken off with 15 to go. Six
Harry Kane The match-winner with his two more finishes for his country. The opener a typical opportunist's goal while the second a superb finish with his head having drifted away away from the opposition. Aged 32, he’s only getting better and the side are strong contenders next summer when he's in the team. 8/10
Eberechi Eze Found it tough to make an impact on the left flank. Had a decent opportunity following a pass by Bellingham but Strakosha denied him. Rashford had a greater an impact when substituted. 5/10
Bench Players
- Foden (for a teammate 63) Looked lively and combined seamlessly with the striker in more familiar role, 6/10
- Bukayo Saka (on for the winger at the 63-minute mark) Failed to convert although his set-piece provided the first goal, Six
- Rashford (for Bowen with 15 left) Active after coming on and set up the captain's brace with superb cross into the area, 7
- Elliot Anderson (for the midfielder 75) Looks established at this level, Six
- Rogers (for the star 84) Not enough time to make an impact, 6