Player Evaluations: England Victory Sealed by Kane's Double in World Cup Qualifying Match
Throughout a dominant display, England secured one more triumph against their opponents, with several squad members turning in standout performances throughout the game.
Starting Eleven
Dean Henderson Not a save to perform during the opening 45 until tested from Arbër Hoxha’s curled attempt. One well-timed sliding challenge on an Albanian attacker highlighted excellent reading of the game. Six out of ten
The debutant Tested against the opposition's main danger in their forward. Started through the middle early on but moved out wide once Saka came on. Seven
John Stones Advanced forward with the ball at his feet, a familiar role previously. On occasion lacked urgency on the ball and the approach discontinued by the interval. 6
The tall defender Always dangerous at set pieces, typically, but may be an alternative for Stones in the backline instead of paired with him. One wayward pass later in the match came close to an opener for Albania. 6
Nico O’Reilly A further composed performance from the youngster following his initial appearance against another side. Saka was unable to take the opportunity from a gorgeous touch behind the opposing backline. The role looks secure at this stage. 7/10
The newcomer His first start in an England shirt. Slightly careless when playing out however his whipped corners caused problems. A useful tempo-setter available to the manager to call upon versus sides that sit back. Cautioned for a poorly timed foul. Six
The midfielder Deliveries from corners and free kicks created chances. Was given freedom to roam on the left only to be in an offside position as the pass came in front of goal. Given a well-earned break after an hour. Six
Jude Bellingham Operated in an advanced role out wide and contributed with dirty work. Displayed glimpses of brilliance and mishit a shot over. Withdrawn in the closing stages for Rogers, his rival, following a yellow card. 7
Jarrod Bowen Was presented with England’s top opening in the opening period, his shot excellently kept out from Thomas Strakosha. As a teammate staying deep, he was forced to offer an outlet on the right although his balls into the box varied in quality. Taken off for the final quarter-hour. Six
The captain The difference-maker scoring two more finishes at international level. The opener a classic poacher’s finish while the second an excellent finish with his head after peeling away away from the opposition. Now 32, he’s only getting better with the national team have every chance in the upcoming tournament with him leading the line. Eight
The attacker Had difficulty to make an impact from the left. Had a good opening following a pass from a teammate yet the keeper denied him. His replacement made much more of effect when substituted. 5
Substitutes
- Phil Foden (replacing Rice on 63 minutes) Appeared sharp and linked up seamlessly with Kane in a preferred position, 6
- Bukayo Saka (on for the winger 63) Failed to convert but his corner provided the breakthrough, 6/10
- Marcus Rashford (replacing Bowen 75) Lively after coming on assisting Kane’s second via an excellent ball into the area, Seven
- Anderson (for Wharton in the 75th minute) Appears comfortable already, 6/10
- Morgan Rogers (for Bellingham with minutes remaining) Not enough time to make an impact, 6