Player Evaluations: The Three Lions Triumph Sealed by Kane's Double in World Cup Qualifier
During a impressive showing, England wrapped up a further triumph versus their opponents, featuring a number of squad members producing standout performances during the match.
First-choice Eleven
Dean Henderson Was rarely tested required before the break but then forced to intervene by an opponent's bent shot. One well-timed sliding challenge against an Albanian attacker showed excellent game intelligence. 6/10
Jarell Quansah Tested against the opposition's main danger through Hoxha. Played in a central role initially then shifted wider once a teammate was introduced. 7
John Stones Moved into midfield with the ball at his feet, as he has done previously. On occasion seemed hesitant on the ball and the experiment abandoned at half-time. 6/10
Dan Burn A nuisance on corners and free-kicks, as always, perhaps is another option to Stones in defense rather than paired with him. A loose pass in the second half nearly resulted in the first goal from Albania. 6
The young full-back One more confident display from the youngster after his first cap against another side. Saka did not capitalize on the opportunity from a gorgeous backheel behind the Albania defence. His position is his to lose so soon. 7
The newcomer His first start for his country. Somewhat careless on the ball though his inswinging set-pieces caused problems. A useful game manager for the coach to call upon against defensive opponents. Shown a yellow after a reckless challenge. Six
The midfielder Deliveries from dead balls and set-plays created chances. Was given freedom to roam in left midfield but was offside as the pass came in shooting positions. Given a well-earned rest after an hour. 6
Jude Bellingham Played in an advanced spot on the right while also did plenty of defensive duties. Demonstrated flashes of quality but scuffed an effort high. Replaced late on by a teammate, his competition, after being booked. 7/10
Jarrod Bowen Was presented with England’s top opening in the opening period, his shot excellently kept out by the opposing goalkeeper. With a teammate hanging back, he had to provide width on the right yet his deliveries from the touchline were hit and miss. Substituted with 15 to go. Six
The captain The match-winner with his 77th and 78th finishes for his country. The opener a trademark poacher’s finish while the second an excellent finish with his head following a clever run off his defender. At 32, his form is unwavering and the side are strong contenders next summer when he's in the team. 8
The attacker Struggled to make an impact from the left. Was presented with a decent opportunity following a pass from a teammate however Strakosha denied him. Rashford produced a bigger effect in his place. 5/10
Replacements
- Phil Foden (replacing a teammate 63) Was bright and linked up seamlessly with the striker in a preferred position, 6/10
- Bukayo Saka (on for Eze at the 63-minute mark) Missed opportunities but his corner provided the first goal, 6/10
- Marcus Rashford (replacing Bowen with 15 left) Energetic after coming on and provided the captain's brace with a brilliant delivery into the area, 7
- Elliot Anderson (for Wharton in the 75th minute) Appears comfortable already, Six
- Rogers (for Bellingham 84) Insufficient minutes to affect things, 6/10