Squad Assessments: England Triumph Secured by Kane's Double in World Cup Qualifying Match
During a dominant performance, England secured another triumph against Albania, with multiple players turning in standout displays on the pitch.
Starting Eleven
The goalkeeper Not a save required in the first half until forced to intervene by Arbër Hoxha’s curled attempt. His sliding challenge against an Albanian attacker demonstrated excellent anticipation. 6/10
Jarell Quansah Challenged by Albania’s primary attacker through their forward. Started through the middle to begin with but moved out wide after a teammate came on. 7/10
John Stones Pushed into midfield with the ball at his feet, a familiar role previously. At times was too casual in possession with the experiment was shelved by the interval. 6/10
The tall defender A constant threat at set pieces, per usual, could serve as a replacement for Stones in defense as opposed to his partner. A careless ball later in the match almost led to the first goal from Albania. 6
The young full-back A further confident showing by the rising star following his initial appearance against Serbia. Saka did not capitalize on the most of an exquisite flick behind their defense. The left-back spot looks secure already. 7
The newcomer His first start with the national team. Somewhat sloppy when playing out however his dangerous corners were a threat. A handy game manager available to the boss to have against sides that sit back. Cautioned for a poorly timed tackle. 6/10
Declan Rice Set-pieces from corners and free kicks created chances. Was given freedom to move on the left but was offside upon receiving in front of goal. Given a merited break on the hour mark. 6
Jude Bellingham Played in an advanced spot out wide and also did plenty of dirty work. Displayed glimpses of brilliance but dragged an attempt wide. Replaced towards the end for a teammate, his competition, after receiving a caution. 7
Jarrod Bowen Had England’s best chance before halftime, his effort smartly stopped from the Albanian keeper. With a teammate hanging back, he had to provide width on the right although his balls into the box were inconsistent. Taken off with 15 to go. 6
Harry Kane The difference-maker netting 77th and 78th goals at international level. The opener a typical poacher’s finish and his next an excellent header following a clever run away from the opposition. At 32, he’s only getting better with the national team stand a real opportunity next summer with him leading the line. Eight
The attacker Struggled to get into the game on the left flank. Had a decent opportunity following a pass from a teammate but the keeper kept it out. His replacement made much more of influence in his place. 5/10
Bench Players
- Foden (replacing Rice on 63 minutes) Was bright connecting effectively with the striker in more familiar role, 6/10
- Saka (on for Eze at the 63-minute mark) Missed opportunities although his set-piece led to the first goal, 6/10
- Rashford (replacing Bowen with 15 left) Energetic upon introduction and provided the second goal with a brilliant delivery to the back post, 7
- Anderson (for Wharton in the 75th minute) Appears comfortable at this level, Six
- Rogers (replacing the star with minutes remaining) Too brief a spell to influence the game, Six