Squad Evaluations: England Win Sealed by Kane's Brace in International Qualifier
In a impressive performance, the English national team secured one more triumph versus Albania, with several players turning in notable displays during the match.
Starting Lineup
Dean Henderson Was rarely tested required in the first half until tested by Arbër Hoxha’s bent shot. His sliding tackle against an Albanian attacker demonstrated his anticipation. 6/10
The debutant Challenged against the opposition's biggest threat through their forward. Played through the middle early on later drifted wider after Saka entered the fray. 7/10
John Stones Pushed into midfield on the ball, something he's known for in the past. On occasion seemed hesitant on the ball with the experiment was shelved at half-time. 6
The tall defender Always dangerous from dead balls, as always, perhaps is a replacement to his teammate in the backline instead of his partner. One wayward pass in the second half almost led to the first goal from Albania. 6
Nico O’Reilly A further composed showing by the youngster after his first cap against Serbia. Saka did not capitalize on the opportunity from a gorgeous backheel behind the Albania defence. The role is his to lose already. Seven
Adam Wharton His maiden beginning for his country. Somewhat careless when playing out though his inswinging deliveries were a threat. An effective tempo-setter available to the boss to call upon versus defensive opponents. Booked after a reckless tackle. 6
The midfielder Crosses on corner kicks and free-kicks caused problems. Enjoyed license to drift on the left only to be in an offside position as the pass came with a chance to score. Granted a well-earned break on the hour mark. 6/10
The star midfielder Played in a forward spot on the right while also contributed with dirty work. Demonstrated flashes of quality and dragged a shot wide. Substituted late on for a teammate, his competition, following a yellow card. Seven
The winger Was presented with England’s top opening before halftime, his effort well saved from the Albanian keeper. As a teammate hanging back, it fell to him to stretch the play out wide but his crosses from wide areas were hit and miss. Replaced with 15 to go. 6/10
The captain The difference-maker scoring 77th and 78th finishes at international level. The first a trademark opportunist's goal and his next a superb header having drifted away away from the opposition. At 32, he’s only getting better and the side stand a real opportunity in future competitions when he's in the team. 8/10
Eberechi Eze Found it tough to make an impact on the left flank. Was presented with a good opening after being played in by the midfielder but the keeper made the save. Rashford had a greater influence in his place. 5/10
Bench Players
- Phil Foden (for Rice on 63 minutes) Appeared sharp connecting seamlessly with the striker in more familiar role, 6
- Saka (for Eze at the 63-minute mark) Failed to convert yet his delivery led to the breakthrough, 6/10
- Rashford (replacing the attacker 75) Lively after coming on assisting Kane’s second with superb cross to the far post, 7/10
- Anderson (on for the midfielder in the 75th minute) Seems settled so soon, Six
- Rogers (for Bellingham with minutes remaining) Not enough time to influence the game, 6/10