Player Evaluations: The Three Lions Win Sealed by Harry Kane's Double in International Qualifying Match
In a commanding performance, England secured one more win versus Albania, with a number of players producing notable displays throughout the game.
Starting XI
The goalkeeper Had little to do required during the opening 45 before tested by Arbër Hoxha’s bent shot. His sliding intervention against an Albanian attacker demonstrated excellent reading of the game. Six out of ten
Jarell Quansah Examined against the opposition's biggest threat through Hoxha. Played through the middle to begin with then shifted wider once Saka was introduced. 7
The defender Pushed forward with the ball at his feet, a familiar role in the past. At times seemed hesitant when carrying play and the experiment was shelved by the interval. 6
The tall defender Always dangerous at set pieces, per usual, perhaps is a replacement for his teammate in the backline as opposed to paired with him. One wayward pass later in the match nearly resulted in an opener for the visitors. 6/10
The young full-back One more confident showing by the 20-year-old following his first cap versus Serbia. A teammate did not capitalize on full advantage of a clever touch over their defense. The left-back spot is firmly his so soon. 7
The newcomer His first start in an England shirt. Slightly loose on the ball however his inswinging corners were a threat. A useful pace-controller for the manager to have against sides that sit back. Cautioned after a reckless tackle. 6/10
Declan Rice Deliveries on corner kicks and free-kicks caused problems. Enjoyed freedom to roam on the left only to be in an offside position as the pass came in front of goal. Awarded a merited break after an hour. Six
Jude Bellingham Played in a forward position on the right while also did plenty of defensive duties. Demonstrated glimpses of brilliance and scuffed a shot high. Substituted in the closing stages for Rogers, a fellow player, after receiving a caution. 7/10
The winger Had England’s top opening of the first half, his effort smartly stopped by the Albanian keeper. With Quansah staying deep, he had to stretch the play down the right side yet his deliveries from wide areas were hit and miss. Replaced with 15 to go. Six
The captain The decisive figure with his two more strikes for his country. The first a trademark poacher’s finish and his next a classy header having drifted away away from the opposition. Aged 32, he’s only getting better with the national team stand a real opportunity next summer with him up top. Eight
Eberechi Eze Had difficulty to make an impact out wide. Had a decent opportunity following a pass by the midfielder but the keeper denied him. His replacement had a greater an impact in his place. Five
Bench Players
- Foden (replacing a teammate on 63 minutes) Was bright and linked up seamlessly with Kane in a natural spot, 6
- Saka (for the winger 63) Failed to convert but his corner created the breakthrough, Six
- Marcus Rashford (for Bowen 75) Active after coming on and set up the second goal via an excellent ball to the far post, 7/10
- Anderson (for Wharton in the 75th minute) Appears comfortable already, Six
- Rogers (for Bellingham 84) Insufficient minutes to make an impact, 6