Squad Assessments: England Triumph Secured by Kane's Double in International Qualifying Match
Throughout a commanding display, the English national team wrapped up one more win against Albania, with a number of squad members delivering memorable performances throughout the game.
First-choice Lineup
Dean Henderson Had little to do to make before the break but then forced to intervene from Arbër Hoxha’s curled attempt. His sliding intervention against an Albanian attacker highlighted sharp reading of the game. 6/10
Jarell Quansah Tested by the opposition's main danger through their forward. Played in a central role to begin with but moved to the flank once a teammate was introduced. 7/10
John Stones Moved up the pitch when in possession, something he's known for in the past. At times seemed hesitant when carrying play and the approach was shelved at half-time. 6
Dan Burn A nuisance on corners and free-kicks, as always, could serve as another option to his teammate in defense as opposed to paired with him. A careless pass later in the match came close to an opener for the visitors. Six
The young full-back A further assured display from the youngster following his debut versus Serbia. Saka was unable to take full advantage of a gorgeous flick behind the Albania defence. The left-back spot looks secure at this stage. 7/10
Adam Wharton His maiden beginning in an England shirt. Slightly careless when playing out though his dangerous corners were a threat. A handy game manager available to the coach to have against defensive opponents. Booked after a reckless challenge. 6/10
The midfielder Set-pieces from dead balls and free kicks created chances. Had license to roam down the left flank only to be offside upon receiving with a chance to score. Awarded a well-earned rest after an hour. Six
The star midfielder Operated in an advanced role out wide and also put in the hard yards. Displayed moments of class and dragged an attempt high. Replaced towards the end for Rogers, his competition, after receiving a caution. 7/10
Jarrod Bowen Was presented with England’s best chance before halftime, his strike smartly stopped from Thomas Strakosha. As Quansah holding position, it fell to him to offer an outlet down the right side but his crosses from wide areas were inconsistent. Taken off with 15 to go. Six
Harry Kane The difference-maker scoring 77th and 78th strikes for his country. His first a typical close-range tap-in and the second a superb header after peeling away from his marker. Now 32, he’s only getting better with the national team have every chance in the upcoming tournament with him leading the line. 8
Eberechi Eze Had difficulty to influence play out wide. Had a good opening when set up by the midfielder yet the keeper made the save. His replacement had a greater effect after coming on. 5/10
Bench Players
- Foden (replacing Rice 63) Appeared sharp connecting well with the striker in a preferred position, 6/10
- Saka (for Eze 63) Failed to convert but his corner created the first goal, 6
- Rashford (for Bowen 75) Energetic after coming on assisting Kane’s second with a brilliant delivery to the back post, 7
- Elliot Anderson (for Wharton in the 75th minute) Looks established already, Six
- Morgan Rogers (replacing the star 84) Insufficient minutes to influence the game, 6