Squad Evaluations: England Victory Secured by Harry Kane's Double in International Qualifier
During a commanding showing, England wrapped up one more triumph against Albania, with several players delivering notable displays on the pitch.
Starting XI
The goalkeeper Was rarely tested to perform during the opening 45 until called into action by Arbër Hoxha’s curled attempt. A sliding tackle on Qazim Laci demonstrated sharp game intelligence. Six out of ten
The debutant Examined by the opposition's main danger in Hoxha. Operated more centrally initially then shifted out wide once a teammate entered the fray. 7
The defender Pushed up the pitch on the ball, a familiar role in the past. Sometimes seemed hesitant on the ball with the experiment was shelved at half-time. 6
Dan Burn A constant threat on corners and free-kicks, typically, but may be a replacement for his teammate in defense rather than paired with him. A loose distribution in the second half almost led to the first goal from the visitors. Six
Nico O’Reilly A further composed performance by the rising star after his first cap versus another side. A teammate did not capitalize on full advantage of a clever flick over the Albania defence. His position is firmly his already. Seven
Adam Wharton His first start with the national team. Slightly sloppy on the ball however his dangerous corners caused problems. An effective pace-controller available to the boss to utilize versus sides that sit back. Booked for a rash tackle. Six
Declan Rice Set-pieces from dead balls and set-plays created chances. Was given freedom to roam down the left flank yet found himself offside when the ball arrived in front of goal. Given a well-earned break after an hour. 6
The star midfielder Played in a high role down the right and also contributed with defensive duties. Displayed flashes of quality and scuffed an attempt wide. Substituted towards the end for a teammate, his rival, after being booked. 7/10
Jarrod Bowen Was presented with England’s top opening before halftime, his shot well saved by the opposing goalkeeper. With Quansah staying deep, he was forced to stretch the play down the right side yet his deliveries into the box were hit and miss. Replaced with 15 to go. 6
The captain The match-winner with his 77th and 78th finishes at international level. The opener a typical opportunist's goal while the second a superb finish with his head after peeling away off his defender. Now 32, he continues to improve with the national team stand a real opportunity next summer when he's in the team. Eight
The attacker Had difficulty to make an impact from the left. Was presented with a good opening after being played in by Bellingham however the keeper kept it out. His replacement had a greater effect in his place. 5/10
Substitutes
- Foden (replacing a teammate on 63 minutes) Looked lively connecting seamlessly with Kane in a natural spot, Six
- Saka (for Eze 63) Failed to convert although his set-piece created the breakthrough, 6/10
- Rashford (for the attacker 75) Active upon introduction and provided Kane’s second with a brilliant delivery to the back post, Seven
- Elliot Anderson (for the midfielder in the 75th minute) Appears comfortable already, Six
- Rogers (for Bellingham with minutes remaining) Insufficient minutes to make an impact, Six