Player Assessments: The Three Lions Win Sealed by Kane's Double in World Cup Qualifier
In a impressive showing, the English national team secured another triumph versus Albania, featuring several squad members turning in notable performances on the pitch.
Starting XI
Dean Henderson Was rarely tested to perform before the break until tested from an opponent's curling effort. A sliding challenge against an Albanian attacker highlighted excellent game intelligence. Six out of ten
Jarell Quansah Tested by Albania’s biggest threat through Hoxha. Played through the middle to begin with then shifted wider after Saka came on. Seven
John Stones Moved up the pitch on the ball, something he's known for in the past. On occasion seemed hesitant on the ball and the tactic was shelved by the interval. Six
The tall defender A constant threat on corners and free-kicks, typically, but may be a replacement for his teammate in defense rather than alongside him. One wayward pass after the break nearly resulted in the first goal for Albania. 6
The young full-back One more assured display from the rising star after his first cap versus Serbia. A teammate did not capitalize on full advantage of an exquisite flick over the opposing backline. The role looks secure already. 7/10
Adam Wharton His maiden beginning with the national team. A bit loose on the ball but his dangerous corners posed a danger. A useful game manager for the coach to utilize against sides that sit back. Shown a yellow after a reckless challenge. Six
Declan Rice Crosses from dead balls and set-plays were dangerous. Was given freedom to drift on the left yet found himself in an offside position when the ball arrived in front of goal. Granted a deserved break after an hour. 6/10
Jude Bellingham Operated in a forward position on the right and also put in dirty work. Showed moments of class but scuffed an effort wide. Replaced late on for Rogers, a fellow player, following a yellow card. 7
Jarrod Bowen Had the team's top opening of the first half, his strike excellently kept out from the Albanian keeper. With a teammate holding position, he had to provide width down the right side yet his deliveries from the touchline were hit and miss. Substituted late in the match. Six
Harry Kane The decisive figure with his two more strikes at international level. His first a classic poacher’s finish while the second a classy header after peeling away from his marker. At 32, he continues to improve and England are strong contenders next summer with him leading the line. 8/10
The attacker Had difficulty to make an impact out wide. Was presented with a good opening after being played in by Bellingham however Strakosha kept it out. His replacement made much more of effect when substituted. 5
Replacements
- Foden (replacing a teammate on 63 minutes) Was bright connecting well with Kane in more familiar role, 6
- Saka (on for the winger at the 63-minute mark) Failed to convert although his set-piece led to the breakthrough, 6/10
- Rashford (replacing the attacker 75) Energetic when brought on assisting the second goal via an excellent ball to the back post, Seven
- Elliot Anderson (on for Wharton 75) Seems settled at this level, 6
- Morgan Rogers (for Bellingham with minutes remaining) Insufficient minutes to make an impact, Six