Squad Assessments: England Triumph Secured by Harry Kane's Brace in World Cup Qualifier
During a impressive showing, England clinched a further win against Albania, with several players delivering standout performances during the match.
First-choice Eleven
Dean Henderson Not a save to make in the first half until forced to intervene by an opponent's bent shot. His sliding intervention against an Albanian attacker highlighted sharp game intelligence. 6/10
The debutant Tested against Albania’s primary attacker in their forward. Played through the middle to begin with but moved wider once Saka entered the fray. Seven
The defender Advanced forward on the ball, something he's known for previously. On occasion was too casual when carrying play with the approach discontinued at half-time. 6/10
Dan Burn A nuisance at set pieces, typically, could serve as an alternative to Stones in the backline instead of paired with him. A careless distribution after the break nearly resulted in an opener for Albania. 6/10
The young full-back A further assured display from the youngster following his first cap versus Serbia. Saka did not capitalize on the most of a clever flick over the Albania defence. The left-back spot looks secure at this stage. Seven
The newcomer His maiden beginning with the national team. A bit sloppy when playing out however his whipped corners posed a danger. A useful pace-controller available to the coach to have against defensive opponents. Booked for a poorly timed foul. Six
Declan Rice Crosses from corners and set-plays were dangerous. Enjoyed freedom to roam on the left but was in an offside position upon receiving with a chance to score. Given a merited rest after an hour. 6/10
The star midfielder Functioned in a high spot on the right and contributed with the hard yards. Showed glimpses of brilliance and scuffed a shot high. Replaced late on by a teammate, his competition, after being booked. Seven
Jarrod Bowen Was presented with the team's best chance of the first half, his effort smartly stopped by the Albanian keeper. With Quansah staying deep, it fell to him to offer an outlet out wide although his balls from wide areas were inconsistent. Taken off for the final quarter-hour. Six
The captain The decisive figure netting 77th and 78th strikes at international level. His first a classic opportunist's goal and his next an excellent headed goal having drifted away from his marker. At 32, he’s only getting better and England stand a real opportunity in the upcoming tournament with him up top. 8
Eberechi Eze Found it tough to make an impact from the left. Was presented with a presentable chance when set up from a teammate yet the keeper denied him. Rashford made much more of effect after coming on. Five
Replacements
- Foden (for Rice 63) Was bright and combined seamlessly with Kane in a natural spot, 6/10
- Bukayo Saka (for Eze at the 63-minute mark) Missed opportunities although his set-piece led to the first goal, Six
- Rashford (for the attacker 75) Energetic when brought on and provided the captain's brace with superb cross into the area, Seven
- Anderson (on for the midfielder 75) Appears comfortable so soon, 6/10
- Morgan Rogers (replacing the star 84) Insufficient minutes to make an impact, Six