Squad Evaluations: The Three Lions Win Secured by Harry Kane's Double in World Cup Qualifying Match
In a commanding showing, England secured a further triumph against their opponents, with several players delivering memorable performances on the pitch.
First-choice Eleven
The goalkeeper Not a save required during the opening 45 before called into action from Arbër Hoxha’s curled attempt. His sliding tackle against an Albanian attacker highlighted his game intelligence. 6/10
Jarell Quansah Examined by Albania’s biggest threat through their forward. Started through the middle to begin with later drifted out wide once Saka entered the fray. Seven
John Stones Advanced up the pitch with the ball at his feet, something he's known for before. On occasion was too casual on the ball and the approach discontinued after the break. 6/10
Dan Burn Always dangerous at set pieces, per usual, but may be a replacement to Stones in the backline instead of alongside him. A loose ball after the break came close to an opener for Albania. Six
Nico O’Reilly A further composed display by the youngster after his debut versus Serbia. Saka was unable to take the opportunity from a gorgeous flick behind their defense. The left-back spot is firmly his at this stage. 7
The newcomer His first start with the national team. A bit loose on the ball however his whipped corners were a threat. A handy game manager for the coach to have against teams who drop deep. Shown a yellow for a rash tackle. 6/10
The midfielder Set-pieces from corners and free kicks caused problems. Enjoyed room to roam in left midfield only to be in an offside position when the ball arrived in front of goal. Granted a well-earned substitution after an hour. 6
The star midfielder Functioned in an advanced spot down the right and put in dirty work. Displayed moments of class and scuffed a shot wide. Replaced late on for a teammate, a fellow player, after being booked. Seven
The winger Had the team's clearest opportunity in the opening period, his shot smartly stopped by the opposing goalkeeper. With a teammate holding position, he had to provide width out wide although his balls from the touchline varied in quality. Replaced late in the match. Six
The captain The match-winner with his seventy-seventh and seventy-eighth finishes for his country. The first a trademark opportunist's goal while the second a superb headed goal following a clever run from his marker. Aged 32, his form is unwavering with the national team stand a real opportunity in the upcoming tournament when he's in the team. Eight
The attacker Struggled to make an impact from the left. Was presented with a presentable chance following a pass by the midfielder however the keeper kept it out. Rashford made much more of effect when substituted. 5
Bench Players
- Phil Foden (replacing Rice 63) Was bright connecting seamlessly with the striker in a preferred position, 6
- Bukayo Saka (on for Eze at the 63-minute mark) Failed to convert but his corner provided the breakthrough, 6
- Marcus Rashford (for the attacker with 15 left) Energetic when brought on assisting the second goal with a brilliant delivery to the back post, Seven
- Elliot Anderson (for Wharton 75) Seems settled so soon, 6/10
- Rogers (for the star with minutes remaining) Not enough time to influence the game, 6