Player Assessments: The Three Lions Win Sealed by Kane's Double in World Cup Qualifier
During a commanding display, England clinched a further triumph versus Albania, featuring several squad members delivering memorable displays throughout the game.
First-choice Lineup
The goalkeeper Was rarely tested required before the break but then tested by Arbër Hoxha’s curled attempt. His sliding tackle against Qazim Laci highlighted sharp anticipation. 6/10
The debutant Challenged by Albania’s biggest threat through their forward. Operated through the middle early on but moved to the flank once Saka came on. 7
The defender Moved up the pitch on the ball, something he's known for previously. Sometimes was too casual on the ball with the approach discontinued at half-time. 6
The tall defender A nuisance on corners and free-kicks, as always, could serve as another option for Stones in defense as opposed to alongside him. A careless ball in the second half nearly resulted in the first goal from the visitors. 6
The young full-back One more composed performance by the youngster after his initial appearance versus another side. A teammate did not capitalize on full advantage of an exquisite touch over the Albania defence. The role is his to lose so soon. 7/10
The newcomer His maiden beginning in an England shirt. Slightly careless on the ball however his inswinging set-pieces posed a danger. An effective game manager available to the coach to have against defensive opponents. Booked after a reckless tackle. 6/10
The midfielder Crosses from dead balls and free-kicks created chances. Enjoyed freedom to move on the left yet found himself offside as the pass came in shooting positions. Given a deserved substitution around the 60-minute point. Six
The star midfielder Functioned in a high spot down the right while also put in defensive duties. Demonstrated flashes of quality but scuffed an attempt wide. Replaced late on by Rogers, his competition, following a yellow card. 7
The winger Had England’s best chance in the opening period, his effort well saved by the Albanian keeper. As a teammate hanging back, it fell to him to offer an outlet down the right side but his crosses from the touchline were hit and miss. Taken off late in the match. 6/10
Harry Kane The decisive figure scoring 77th and 78th strikes in an England shirt. The first a typical opportunist's goal while the second a superb header after peeling away off his defender. At 32, his form is unwavering and England are strong contenders in the upcoming tournament when he's in the team. 8/10
The attacker Had difficulty to influence play from the left. Was presented with a decent opportunity when set up from a teammate yet the keeper kept it out. Rashford had a greater effect after coming on. Five
Replacements
- Phil Foden (replacing Rice 63) Was bright and linked up seamlessly with the striker in a preferred position, 6/10
- Saka (on for Eze 63) Failed to convert but his corner created the opener, Six
- Marcus Rashford (for Bowen 75) Energetic when brought on and provided the captain's brace via an excellent ball into the area, 7
- Elliot Anderson (for Wharton in the 75th minute) Looks established at this level, 6
- Rogers (replacing the star 84) Insufficient minutes to affect things, 6