Player Assessments: England Win Sealed by Harry Kane's Double in International Qualifying Match
During a impressive showing, England wrapped up one more win versus Albania, featuring several squad members turning in notable displays during the match.
Starting Eleven
Dean Henderson Not a save to make during the opening 45 but then forced to intervene by an opponent's curled attempt. One well-timed sliding challenge against an Albanian attacker showed excellent anticipation. Six out of ten
Jarell Quansah Examined against Albania’s biggest threat through Hoxha. Played through the middle to begin with then shifted to the flank once a teammate came on. 7
The defender Advanced into midfield on the ball, something he's known for before. At times was too casual when carrying play and the approach discontinued after the break. 6/10
Dan Burn Always dangerous on corners and free-kicks, typically, perhaps is a replacement to Stones in defense as opposed to alongside him. A careless distribution in the second half came close to the first goal for Albania. 6/10
Nico O’Reilly One more confident display from the rising star following his initial appearance against another side. Saka was unable to take full advantage of a clever flick over the Albania defence. His position is his to lose already. 7
The newcomer His first start in an England shirt. Slightly careless on the ball however his inswinging deliveries caused problems. A handy tempo-setter for the coach to have against defensive opponents. Cautioned after a reckless tackle. 6/10
The midfielder Crosses from corners and set-plays caused problems. Enjoyed room to roam on the left but was offside upon receiving in shooting positions. Awarded a deserved rest after an hour. 6
The star midfielder Functioned in a forward spot on the right and contributed with the hard yards. Demonstrated moments of class but scuffed an effort over. Replaced towards the end for Rogers, his competition, following a yellow card. 7/10
The winger Was presented with the team's clearest opportunity before halftime, his shot smartly stopped from the Albanian keeper. With a teammate hanging back, he was forced to provide width on the right but his crosses from the touchline varied in quality. Replaced with 15 to go. 6/10
Harry Kane The difference-maker netting seventy-seventh and seventy-eighth strikes at international level. The first a classic opportunist's goal and his next a superb finish with his head after peeling away from his marker. Now 32, he’s only getting better and the side have every chance next summer with him leading the line. Eight
The attacker Had difficulty to influence play on the left flank. Had a presentable chance following a pass by the midfielder however the keeper denied him. His replacement had a greater an impact when substituted. 5
Substitutes
- Foden (replacing a teammate on 63 minutes) Looked lively and combined well with the striker in more familiar role, Six
- Saka (on for Eze 63) Spurned chances although his set-piece provided the first goal, 6
- Marcus Rashford (replacing Bowen with 15 left) Active when brought on and set up the captain's brace with a brilliant delivery to the back post, 7
- Anderson (for the midfielder 75) Seems settled already, Six
- Rogers (replacing the star 84) Insufficient minutes to influence the game, 6