Player Assessments: England Triumph Sealed by Harry Kane's Double in International Qualifying Match
In a commanding display, England clinched another win versus Albania, with a number of players producing standout performances during the match.
First-choice Eleven
Dean Henderson Had little to do to make in the first half but then tested by Arbër Hoxha’s curled attempt. His sliding tackle on an Albanian attacker demonstrated his anticipation. Six out of ten
The debutant Examined by Albania’s biggest threat in Hoxha. Operated in a central role to begin with later drifted wider after a teammate entered the fray. 7/10
The defender Moved into midfield when in possession, as he has done in the past. On occasion seemed hesitant on the ball and the approach was shelved after the break. 6/10
The tall defender Always dangerous at set pieces, per usual, but may be a replacement for Stones in the backline as opposed to his partner. A careless pass after the break came close to the first goal from the visitors. Six
The young full-back One more confident display by the rising star after his debut against Serbia. Saka did not capitalize on full advantage of a gorgeous touch over the Albania defence. His position is his to lose already. 7
Adam Wharton A debut start with the national team. A bit loose in possession though his inswinging deliveries posed a danger. A handy tempo-setter for the coach to utilize against sides that sit back. Shown a yellow for a poorly timed foul. 6/10
The midfielder Crosses on corner kicks and set-plays were dangerous. Was given freedom to drift in left midfield only to be in an offside position upon receiving with a chance to score. Given a merited rest after an hour. 6
Jude Bellingham Functioned in a forward position out wide and also did plenty of defensive duties. Demonstrated moments of class and scuffed a shot high. Replaced towards the end by a teammate, his rival, following a yellow card. 7/10
Jarrod Bowen Was presented with the team's best chance before halftime, his shot excellently kept out by the Albanian keeper. With Quansah hanging back, it fell to him to provide width on the right but his crosses into the box varied in quality. Replaced for the final quarter-hour. Six
Harry Kane The decisive figure with his 77th and 78th goals in an England shirt. The opener a classic close-range tap-in and his next an excellent finish with his head after peeling away from his marker. Now 32, he continues to improve and the side are strong contenders in the upcoming tournament with him up top. 8/10
The attacker Struggled to influence play on the left flank. Was presented with a good opening following a pass by Bellingham however the keeper kept it out. His replacement produced a bigger an impact when substituted. Five
Replacements
- Phil Foden (for Rice on 63 minutes) Looked lively and combined well with Kane in a preferred position, Six
- Saka (for Eze at the 63-minute mark) Spurned chances yet his delivery led to the opener, 6/10
- Rashford (replacing the attacker with 15 left) Active when brought on and provided the captain's brace with a brilliant delivery to the back post, 7
- Elliot Anderson (for the midfielder 75) Seems settled already, Six
- Rogers (for the star 84) Insufficient minutes to influence the game, 6