Squad Assessments: The Three Lions Victory Sealed by Harry Kane's Double in World Cup Qualifying Match
In a impressive display, the English national team wrapped up a further triumph versus Albania, featuring several squad members turning in standout performances during the match.
Starting XI
Dean Henderson Was rarely tested required in the first half until tested from Arbër Hoxha’s curled attempt. One well-timed sliding challenge against an Albanian attacker demonstrated excellent game intelligence. Six out of ten
The debutant Examined by the opposition's main danger through Hoxha. Operated more centrally early on but moved wider after Saka was introduced. 7
John Stones Moved up the pitch when in possession, something he's known for previously. Sometimes was too casual when carrying play with the experiment abandoned by the interval. Six
The tall defender A nuisance at set pieces, as always, perhaps is an alternative for his teammate in the backline as opposed to paired with him. One wayward pass in the second half nearly resulted in an opener from the visitors. Six
The young full-back Another confident display by the youngster after his first cap against Serbia. A teammate failed to make the opportunity from a gorgeous backheel over the opposing backline. The role looks secure at this stage. Seven
The newcomer His first start for his country. A bit careless when playing out though his whipped corners were a threat. A handy tempo-setter available to the boss to have versus sides that sit back. Shown a yellow for a rash foul. 6
Declan Rice Crosses from dead balls and set-plays were dangerous. Enjoyed room to move down the left flank only to be offside upon receiving in shooting positions. Given a well-earned break around the 60-minute point. Six
The star midfielder Functioned in a high position on the right and also contributed with the hard yards. Displayed moments of class and dragged an effort over. Withdrawn in the closing stages by a teammate, his competition, after receiving a caution. 7
Jarrod Bowen Was presented with England’s best chance of the first half, his shot well saved from Thomas Strakosha. With a teammate holding position, it fell to him to stretch the play down the right side but his crosses from the touchline were hit and miss. Substituted for the final quarter-hour. Six
The captain The decisive figure with his two more goals at international level. The first a typical poacher’s finish and his next a classy finish with his head following a clever run off his defender. Aged 32, he’s only getting better and England have every chance in future competitions with him up top. 8/10
The attacker Had difficulty to make an impact out wide. Was presented with a presentable chance after being played in by Bellingham yet Strakosha kept it out. His replacement had a greater effect when substituted. 5/10
Bench Players
- Foden (replacing a teammate on 63 minutes) Was bright connecting seamlessly with the striker in a natural spot, 6/10
- Bukayo Saka (on for Eze at the 63-minute mark) Failed to convert yet his delivery created the breakthrough, Six
- Rashford (for Bowen with 15 left) Lively when brought on assisting Kane’s second via an excellent ball into the area, 7/10
- Anderson (on for Wharton in the 75th minute) Appears comfortable already, 6/10
- Morgan Rogers (for the star with minutes remaining) Insufficient minutes to influence the game, Six