Squad Assessments: England Victory Sealed by Kane's Brace in International Qualifying Match
Throughout a commanding showing, the English national team secured a further win against their opponents, with a number of squad members producing memorable displays during the match.
Starting Eleven
Dean Henderson Was rarely tested to make during the opening 45 before tested from Arbër Hoxha’s curling effort. His sliding tackle on an Albanian attacker highlighted sharp anticipation. 6/10
The debutant Tested against Albania’s biggest threat in their forward. Started through the middle to begin with but moved wider after Saka came on. Seven
The defender Advanced into midfield when in possession, something he's known for previously. Sometimes lacked urgency in possession and the tactic was shelved at half-time. 6
Dan Burn A nuisance from dead balls, typically, perhaps is an alternative to Stones in the backline as opposed to alongside him. A loose distribution later in the match almost led to an opener from Albania. Six
The young full-back A further assured display from the rising star after his initial appearance versus Serbia. Saka failed to make the most of a gorgeous touch over their defense. The role is firmly his so soon. 7/10
The newcomer A debut start in an England shirt. Somewhat careless on the ball though his whipped set-pieces posed a danger. An effective game manager available to the boss to utilize against defensive opponents. Booked for a poorly timed challenge. 6
Declan Rice Deliveries on corner kicks and free kicks were dangerous. Had freedom to move on the left yet found himself in an offside position as the pass came in shooting positions. Given a deserved break around the 60-minute point. 6
The star midfielder Functioned in a high spot down the right and also did plenty of defensive duties. Showed glimpses of brilliance and scuffed an effort wide. Replaced towards the end by a teammate, his rival, after receiving a caution. 7/10
Jarrod Bowen Had the team's clearest opportunity before halftime, his effort well saved from Thomas Strakosha. With Quansah holding position, it fell to him to stretch the play on the right but his crosses into the box varied in quality. Substituted for the final quarter-hour. 6
The captain The decisive figure netting two more strikes for his country. The first a trademark poacher’s finish while the second an excellent headed goal having drifted away off his defender. Now 32, his form is unwavering and the side have every chance in the upcoming tournament with him leading the line. 8
Eberechi Eze Struggled to influence play from the left. Was presented with a good opening after being played in by the midfielder however the keeper kept it out. Rashford made much more of effect in his place. 5/10
Replacements
- Foden (replacing Rice on 63 minutes) Looked lively and linked up effectively with Kane in a natural spot, 6
- Saka (for Eze 63) Spurned chances although his set-piece created the breakthrough, 6/10
- Marcus Rashford (replacing the attacker 75) Lively after coming on assisting the second goal via an excellent ball into the area, 7/10
- Anderson (on for Wharton 75) Looks established so soon, 6
- Morgan Rogers (for Bellingham 84) Too brief a spell to influence the game, 6/10