Player Assessments: The Three Lions Victory Sealed by Harry Kane's Double in World Cup Qualifier
During a dominant showing, the English national team wrapped up a further win versus Albania, featuring a number of players delivering memorable performances throughout the game.
Starting XI
The goalkeeper Not a save to make in the first half but then called into action by an opponent's curled attempt. One well-timed sliding tackle against an Albanian attacker highlighted excellent game intelligence. 6/10
The debutant Challenged by the opposition's biggest threat in Hoxha. Operated in a central role initially but moved to the flank once a teammate was introduced. 7/10
John Stones Pushed forward when in possession, a familiar role before. Sometimes lacked urgency in possession with the tactic was shelved by the interval. 6/10
Dan Burn A constant threat on corners and free-kicks, per usual, but may be a replacement for his teammate in the backline rather than his partner. A careless distribution in the second half came close to an opener for the visitors. 6/10
Nico O’Reilly Another confident display by the youngster after his initial appearance against another side. A teammate failed to make full advantage of an exquisite flick behind the Albania defence. The left-back spot looks secure so soon. Seven
The newcomer His maiden beginning in an England shirt. A bit careless on the ball though his dangerous set-pieces were a threat. An effective game manager for the boss to have against teams who drop deep. Cautioned after a reckless challenge. 6
Declan Rice Crosses from corners and set-plays caused problems. Was given room to drift in left midfield only to be offside when the ball arrived in front of goal. Granted a well-earned rest on the hour mark. Six
Jude Bellingham Operated in a high spot down the right while also contributed with dirty work. Demonstrated flashes of quality and mishit an effort high. Replaced towards the end by a teammate, his rival, after receiving a caution. 7
Jarrod Bowen Was presented with the team's best chance in the opening period, his strike excellently kept out by Thomas Strakosha. As Quansah holding position, he had to provide width down the right side although his balls from the touchline were hit and miss. Replaced for the final quarter-hour. 6
The captain The match-winner with his 77th and 78th strikes at international level. The opener a trademark opportunist's goal and the second a classy header following a clever run from his marker. Aged 32, he’s only getting better and the side are strong contenders in future competitions with him leading the line. 8/10
The attacker Found it tough to influence play from the left. Was presented with a decent opportunity when set up by the midfielder but the keeper made the save. His replacement had a greater an impact after coming on. 5/10
Replacements
- Foden (replacing a teammate 63) Looked lively and combined effectively with the striker in more familiar role, 6
- Saka (for Eze at the 63-minute mark) Missed opportunities yet his delivery created the first goal, Six
- Marcus Rashford (replacing the attacker 75) Lively upon introduction assisting the second goal via an excellent ball to the far post, Seven
- Anderson (on for Wharton in the 75th minute) Seems settled already, 6
- Morgan Rogers (replacing Bellingham 84) Too brief a spell to influence the game, 6