Squad Evaluations: England Triumph Sealed by Kane's Double in International Qualifier
Throughout a impressive showing, the English national team wrapped up one more victory versus their opponents, featuring several players turning in standout displays throughout the game.
First-choice Eleven
Dean Henderson Not a save to perform in the first half until forced to intervene from Arbër Hoxha’s curling effort. His sliding tackle against an Albanian attacker showed sharp anticipation. Six out of ten
Jarell Quansah Examined against Albania’s main danger through Hoxha. Operated through the middle initially later drifted out wide after a teammate was introduced. Seven
John Stones Moved into midfield with the ball at his feet, as he has done in the past. Sometimes lacked urgency when carrying play and the tactic discontinued after the break. Six
The tall defender A nuisance at set pieces, as always, perhaps is an alternative for Stones in the backline rather than paired with him. A loose distribution in the second half almost led to an opener from Albania. 6
Nico O’Reilly A further assured performance by the youngster after his initial appearance against Serbia. A teammate was unable to take the opportunity from a gorgeous backheel over the Albania defence. His position is his to lose at this stage. Seven
The newcomer A debut start in an England shirt. Slightly sloppy on the ball though his whipped deliveries posed a danger. A useful tempo-setter for the boss to call upon versus sides that sit back. Cautioned for a rash challenge. 6/10
Declan Rice Deliveries on corner kicks and set-plays were dangerous. Was given room to drift in left midfield yet found himself in an offside position when the ball arrived in front of goal. Granted a deserved break around the 60-minute point. Six
The star midfielder Played in an advanced position out wide and did plenty of dirty work. Showed flashes of quality but scuffed an effort high. Replaced late on for Rogers, his competition, following a yellow card. Seven
Jarrod Bowen Was presented with England’s top opening of the first half, his effort smartly stopped from the Albanian keeper. With a teammate staying deep, he had to offer an outlet on the right but his crosses from wide areas varied in quality. Taken off for the final quarter-hour. 6
Harry Kane The difference-maker with his 77th and 78th strikes for his country. The opener a classic close-range tap-in while the second an excellent headed goal following a clever run from his marker. Aged 32, he continues to improve and the side have every chance next summer with him up top. 8/10
Eberechi Eze Struggled to make an impact from the left. Was presented with a presentable chance when set up by the midfielder yet Strakosha denied him. Rashford had a greater influence when substituted. 5/10
Replacements
- Foden (for Rice 63) Was bright and linked up effectively with Kane in a natural spot, Six
- Bukayo Saka (for the winger at the 63-minute mark) Missed opportunities but his corner led to the first goal, Six
- Marcus Rashford (for Bowen 75) Energetic after coming on assisting the second goal via an excellent ball into the area, Seven
- Elliot Anderson (for Wharton 75) Seems settled so soon, 6
- Rogers (for the star with minutes remaining) Not enough time to affect things, Six