Squad Assessments: The Three Lions Victory Secured by Kane's Brace in International Qualifier
In a dominant display, the English national team wrapped up a further triumph versus their opponents, with a number of squad members delivering memorable displays throughout the game.
First-choice Eleven
Dean Henderson Had little to do to perform during the opening 45 before tested from Arbër Hoxha’s curling effort. His sliding tackle on an Albanian attacker showed sharp reading of the game. Six out of ten
Jarell Quansah Examined against Albania’s biggest threat through their forward. Started through the middle to begin with then shifted wider once Saka was introduced. 7/10
The defender Advanced into midfield on the ball, as he has done before. At times seemed hesitant on the ball and the approach discontinued after the break. 6
Dan Burn A constant threat from dead balls, typically, could serve as a replacement for Stones at the back rather than his partner. One wayward pass in the second half came close to the first goal for Albania. Six
Nico O’Reilly A further assured display by the 20-year-old following his first cap against Serbia. A teammate was unable to take the most of a clever backheel behind the Albania defence. The left-back spot looks secure at this stage. 7/10
The newcomer His first start in an England shirt. Somewhat loose when playing out however his dangerous set-pieces caused problems. A useful game manager available to the coach to call upon versus teams who drop deep. Cautioned for a poorly timed tackle. Six
The midfielder Crosses from dead balls and free kicks were dangerous. Had freedom to drift in left midfield only to be offside upon receiving in front of goal. Given a well-earned substitution around the 60-minute point. 6/10
The star midfielder Played in a high spot down the right and contributed with defensive duties. Showed glimpses of brilliance but dragged a shot over. Withdrawn late on by Rogers, his rival, after receiving a caution. Seven
The winger Was presented with the team's clearest opportunity before halftime, his shot well saved by the Albanian keeper. With Quansah holding position, he was forced to stretch the play down the right side but his crosses from the touchline were hit and miss. Substituted for the final quarter-hour. 6
Harry Kane The decisive figure netting 77th and 78th strikes for his country. The first a typical close-range tap-in while the second an excellent header following a clever run away from the opposition. Aged 32, his form is unwavering with the national team are strong contenders in future competitions when he's in the team. 8
The attacker Struggled to get into the game on the left flank. Was presented with a presentable chance when set up by Bellingham but the keeper made the save. His replacement made much more of effect after coming on. Five
Substitutes
- Phil Foden (for a teammate on 63 minutes) Appeared sharp connecting effectively with Kane in more familiar role, 6/10
- Saka (on for the winger 63) Missed opportunities yet his delivery led to the first goal, Six
- Rashford (for the attacker 75) Lively when brought on and set up the captain's brace with a brilliant delivery to the back post, Seven
- Anderson (for the midfielder 75) Appears comfortable so soon, Six
- Rogers (replacing Bellingham with minutes remaining) Not enough time to influence the game, 6/10