Player Assessments: The Three Lions Triumph Sealed by Harry Kane's Double in World Cup Qualifying Match
During a dominant display, England wrapped up a further win versus Albania, with multiple players delivering notable performances throughout the game.
Starting XI
Dean Henderson Not a save to perform before the break until forced to intervene from Arbër Hoxha’s bent shot. A sliding challenge on an Albanian attacker demonstrated excellent anticipation. 6/10
The debutant Challenged by Albania’s main danger in Hoxha. Operated in a central role early on then shifted out wide after a teammate entered the fray. Seven
John Stones Moved up the pitch with the ball at his feet, a familiar role previously. Sometimes lacked urgency on the ball with the approach discontinued after the break. 6/10
Dan Burn A nuisance on corners and free-kicks, as always, but may be a replacement to his teammate in defense rather than paired with him. One wayward ball in the second half nearly resulted in an opener from Albania. 6
Nico O’Reilly A further assured display by the 20-year-old following his first cap against Serbia. A teammate was unable to take the opportunity from a clever flick over the opposing backline. The role looks secure already. Seven
Adam Wharton A debut start with the national team. A bit loose in possession but his inswinging set-pieces were a threat. A handy pace-controller available to the boss to utilize versus teams who drop deep. Booked for a rash challenge. 6/10
The midfielder Crosses from corners and set-plays caused problems. Enjoyed room to drift on the left only to be offside upon receiving in shooting positions. Given a well-earned rest around the 60-minute point. 6/10
The star midfielder Played in an advanced spot on the right and also put in defensive duties. Demonstrated glimpses of brilliance and scuffed an attempt over. Substituted towards the end by a teammate, a fellow player, after receiving a caution. Seven
Jarrod Bowen Was presented with England’s best chance of the first half, his effort excellently kept out by Thomas Strakosha. With Quansah staying deep, he had to stretch the play down the right side but his crosses from the touchline were hit and miss. Substituted late in the match. 6
The captain The match-winner netting seventy-seventh and seventy-eighth finishes for his country. The opener a trademark close-range tap-in while the second an excellent headed goal having drifted away from his marker. At 32, his form is unwavering and the side are strong contenders in the upcoming tournament with him leading the line. 8
Eberechi Eze Struggled to get into the game on the left flank. Had a good opening following a pass by the midfielder yet the keeper kept it out. Rashford made much more of influence in his place. 5
Replacements
- Phil Foden (replacing Rice 63) Was bright and linked up effectively with the striker in more familiar role, Six
- Saka (for Eze at the 63-minute mark) Missed opportunities yet his delivery provided the first goal, 6
- Marcus Rashford (for the attacker with 15 left) Lively upon introduction and set up the captain's brace via an excellent ball into the area, Seven
- Elliot Anderson (for Wharton in the 75th minute) Looks established so soon, 6
- Morgan Rogers (for Bellingham with minutes remaining) Insufficient minutes to influence the game, 6