Player Assessments: England Victory Sealed by Harry Kane's Brace in International Qualifying Match
During a dominant performance, England clinched another win against their opponents, featuring several squad members producing notable displays on the pitch.
First-choice Lineup
Dean Henderson Not a save to perform during the opening 45 until forced to intervene from an opponent's curled attempt. His sliding challenge on Qazim Laci demonstrated his anticipation. 6/10
The debutant Tested against the opposition's primary attacker through Hoxha. Played more centrally initially but moved wider after a teammate was introduced. Seven
The defender Advanced up the pitch on the ball, as he has done before. On occasion seemed hesitant on the ball with the approach abandoned after the break. 6
Dan Burn Always dangerous from dead balls, per usual, perhaps is a replacement for his teammate at the back as opposed to alongside him. One wayward distribution in the second half almost led to the first goal for Albania. 6/10
Nico O’Reilly A further composed showing from the youngster following his initial appearance against Serbia. Saka failed to make the opportunity from a clever backheel over the Albania defence. His position looks secure so soon. 7/10
Adam Wharton A debut start in an England shirt. Somewhat loose when playing out but his whipped deliveries caused problems. A useful tempo-setter for the coach to utilize against defensive opponents. Cautioned after a reckless foul. Six
Declan Rice Deliveries from corners and set-plays created chances. Enjoyed freedom to roam down the left flank yet found himself offside upon receiving in front of goal. Granted a deserved substitution after an hour. 6/10
The star midfielder Functioned in a forward position down the right while also did plenty of defensive duties. Showed flashes of quality but mishit an attempt wide. Withdrawn late on by a teammate, a fellow player, after receiving a caution. Seven
The winger Was presented with the team's best chance before halftime, his shot smartly stopped from the Albanian keeper. With a teammate holding position, he was forced to provide width on the right although his balls into the box varied in quality. Replaced late in the match. 6/10
The captain The match-winner netting 77th and 78th goals at international level. The opener a trademark poacher’s finish while the second an excellent header having drifted away from his marker. At 32, he’s only getting better and the side have every chance in the upcoming tournament with him leading the line. 8/10
The attacker Had difficulty to make an impact from the left. Was presented with a good opening following a pass from a teammate however Strakosha denied him. Rashford made much more of an impact in his place. 5/10
Replacements
- Foden (for Rice on 63 minutes) Was bright and linked up effectively with Kane in a natural spot, Six
- Saka (on for the winger 63) Missed opportunities yet his delivery created the breakthrough, 6/10
- Marcus Rashford (for Bowen 75) Lively when brought on and set up the captain's brace with a brilliant delivery to the far post, 7
- Elliot Anderson (for Wharton in the 75th minute) Seems settled already, 6
- Morgan Rogers (for the star with minutes remaining) Too brief a spell to influence the game, 6