Player Assessments: England Triumph Sealed by Harry Kane's Brace in World Cup Qualifying Match
In a commanding showing, England clinched another win against their opponents, featuring several squad members producing standout displays throughout the game.
First-choice Eleven
The goalkeeper Not a save to make before the break but then called into action from Arbër Hoxha’s curled attempt. His sliding intervention against an Albanian attacker showed sharp game intelligence. 6/10
Jarell Quansah Examined against Albania’s primary attacker through their forward. Operated more centrally initially later drifted out wide after Saka was introduced. Seven
John Stones Advanced forward when in possession, something he's known for previously. Sometimes seemed hesitant on the ball with the tactic abandoned after the break. 6/10
The tall defender A nuisance on corners and free-kicks, as always, perhaps is an alternative to Stones at the back rather than paired with him. A careless ball in the second half came close to an opener for the visitors. 6/10
The young full-back Another confident performance from the rising star after his initial appearance against Serbia. Saka did not capitalize on the most of a gorgeous touch behind their defense. The role looks secure so soon. 7
Adam Wharton A debut start with the national team. Slightly careless when playing out though his inswinging deliveries were a threat. A useful tempo-setter available to the manager to have against defensive opponents. Cautioned for a rash foul. 6
Declan Rice Crosses on corner kicks and free-kicks created chances. Enjoyed license to roam in left midfield but was in an offside position upon receiving in front of goal. Given a deserved break after an hour. Six
The star midfielder Played in an advanced role down the right while also contributed with dirty work. Showed glimpses of brilliance but mishit an effort wide. Withdrawn towards the end by a teammate, his competition, following a yellow card. Seven
Jarrod Bowen Was presented with England’s clearest opportunity in the opening period, his strike smartly stopped from the Albanian keeper. With Quansah staying deep, he was forced to provide width down the right side although his balls into the box were hit and miss. Substituted with 15 to go. 6
The captain The difference-maker with his two more goals at international level. The first a classic close-range tap-in while the second a classy headed goal following a clever run from his marker. At 32, he continues to improve and England are strong contenders in future competitions with him up top. 8/10
Eberechi Eze Struggled to make an impact from the left. Had a good opening following a pass by the midfielder yet the keeper denied him. His replacement had a greater effect after coming on. 5
Substitutes
- Foden (replacing Rice 63) Appeared sharp and combined effectively with Kane in more familiar role, 6/10
- Bukayo Saka (on for the winger 63) Failed to convert although his set-piece provided the breakthrough, 6
- Rashford (for the attacker with 15 left) Energetic after coming on assisting Kane’s second via an excellent ball into the area, 7
- Anderson (for Wharton 75) Looks established at this level, Six
- Morgan Rogers (replacing Bellingham with minutes remaining) Not enough time to make an impact, 6