Squad Assessments: England Triumph Secured by Kane's Double in International Qualifying Match
During a commanding showing, the English national team secured another triumph versus their opponents, featuring multiple squad members turning in memorable performances throughout the game.
First-choice XI
Dean Henderson Not a save to perform during the opening 45 before tested from an opponent's bent shot. His sliding tackle on an Albanian attacker showed excellent anticipation. 6/10
The debutant Tested against Albania’s biggest threat in their forward. Operated in a central role to begin with then shifted out wide after a teammate came on. 7/10
John Stones Advanced into midfield on the ball, as he has done before. On occasion seemed hesitant when carrying play with the approach abandoned after the break. Six
The tall defender Always dangerous at set pieces, typically, could serve as an alternative to Stones in the backline instead of paired with him. One wayward ball after the break came close to an opener from the visitors. 6/10
The young full-back One more assured performance by the 20-year-old after his first cap against Serbia. Saka did not capitalize on full advantage of a clever touch over the Albania defence. The role looks secure so soon. 7
Adam Wharton His maiden beginning for his country. A bit careless on the ball though his inswinging deliveries were a threat. A useful pace-controller available to the manager to have against teams who drop deep. Cautioned after a reckless tackle. 6/10
Declan Rice Crosses from dead balls and set-plays were dangerous. Enjoyed freedom to move on the left but was in an offside position upon receiving with a chance to score. Awarded a well-earned rest around the 60-minute point. 6
Jude Bellingham Played in a forward role out wide and contributed with dirty work. Demonstrated glimpses of brilliance and mishit an attempt high. Replaced towards the end for Rogers, his competition, following a yellow card. Seven
Jarrod Bowen Was presented with the team's top opening before halftime, his effort excellently kept out from Thomas Strakosha. As a teammate holding position, he had to stretch the play down the right side but his crosses into the box varied in quality. Replaced for the final quarter-hour. 6
Harry Kane The match-winner with his seventy-seventh and seventy-eighth strikes for his country. The first a trademark close-range tap-in while the second an excellent header having drifted away from his marker. Now 32, he’s only getting better and England are strong contenders in the upcoming tournament with him up top. 8
The attacker Struggled to get into the game out wide. Had a presentable chance following a pass from a teammate yet Strakosha denied him. Rashford produced a bigger an impact in his place. 5
Substitutes
- Phil Foden (replacing a teammate 63) Looked lively and combined effectively with the striker in a natural spot, 6
- Bukayo Saka (for the winger at the 63-minute mark) Missed opportunities yet his delivery created the first goal, 6/10
- Marcus Rashford (for Bowen 75) Active when brought on assisting the captain's brace via an excellent ball to the back post, Seven
- Anderson (for the midfielder in the 75th minute) Looks established already, 6
- Morgan Rogers (replacing Bellingham with minutes remaining) Insufficient minutes to make an impact, 6