Player Evaluations: The Three Lions Triumph Secured by Kane's Brace in International Qualifying Match
In a dominant performance, the English national team wrapped up a further win versus Albania, with multiple squad members producing notable displays during the match.
First-choice XI
Dean Henderson Was rarely tested required before the break before forced to intervene by Arbër Hoxha’s bent shot. One well-timed sliding intervention against an Albanian attacker showed excellent anticipation. Six out of ten
The debutant Challenged by the opposition's main danger in their forward. Started through the middle initially later drifted wider once a teammate came on. 7
The defender Pushed into midfield on the ball, something he's known for in the past. Sometimes was too casual on the ball with the tactic abandoned at half-time. 6
The tall defender Always dangerous from dead balls, typically, perhaps is another option to Stones in the backline rather than alongside him. One wayward ball in the second half nearly resulted in a goal for the visitors. 6/10
The young full-back One more composed display from the rising star after his initial appearance against another side. A teammate did not capitalize on the opportunity from a gorgeous backheel behind their defense. The left-back spot looks secure already. 7/10
The newcomer His first start for his country. Somewhat sloppy on the ball however his whipped deliveries caused problems. A useful tempo-setter available to the manager to have versus sides that sit back. Cautioned for a rash challenge. 6
The midfielder Crosses from dead balls and free-kicks were dangerous. Enjoyed room to drift in left midfield yet found himself in an offside position upon receiving in shooting positions. Awarded a deserved rest around the 60-minute point. 6/10
The star midfielder Functioned in a high spot on the right while also contributed with defensive duties. Displayed moments of class and scuffed an effort over. Substituted in the closing stages for a teammate, a fellow player, following a yellow card. Seven
Jarrod Bowen Had the team's clearest opportunity of the first half, his shot excellently kept out from the Albanian keeper. With a teammate holding position, he had to provide width out wide yet his deliveries from the touchline were hit and miss. Replaced late in the match. 6/10
Harry Kane The difference-maker with his 77th and 78th finishes for his country. The opener a typical close-range tap-in and the second a classy header having drifted away away from the opposition. Now 32, he continues to improve and England are strong contenders next summer with him up top. 8
The attacker Had difficulty to get into the game on the left flank. Was presented with a good opening following a pass by Bellingham but the keeper denied him. Rashford produced a bigger an impact when substituted. 5
Substitutes
- Phil Foden (for Rice 63) Was bright and linked up seamlessly with Kane in more familiar role, 6
- Saka (for the winger at the 63-minute mark) Failed to convert although his set-piece led to the first goal, 6/10
- Rashford (for Bowen with 15 left) Lively upon introduction and provided the second goal with superb cross to the far post, Seven
- Anderson (for the midfielder 75) Appears comfortable already, 6
- Morgan Rogers (replacing the star with minutes remaining) Not enough time to affect things, 6/10