Player Assessments: England Triumph Sealed by Kane's Brace in International Qualifier
During a impressive performance, the English national team wrapped up another victory against their opponents, with a number of squad members delivering notable displays during the match.
First-choice XI
Dean Henderson Had little to do to make before the break until tested by an opponent's bent shot. A sliding challenge on an Albanian attacker showed excellent reading of the game. Six out of ten
The debutant Tested against Albania’s biggest threat through Hoxha. Played through the middle early on then shifted to the flank after Saka was introduced. 7/10
The defender Advanced into midfield with the ball at his feet, a familiar role previously. Sometimes lacked urgency when carrying play and the approach discontinued by the interval. 6
Dan Burn A nuisance from dead balls, typically, perhaps is an alternative for Stones in the backline rather than his partner. A loose pass later in the match nearly resulted in the first goal from Albania. Six
The young full-back Another assured performance from the rising star after his debut against another side. Saka failed to make the most of a gorgeous touch over the Albania defence. The left-back spot is his to lose already. 7/10
Adam Wharton His first start with the national team. Somewhat loose on the ball but his whipped set-pieces caused problems. A handy pace-controller for the boss to have against defensive opponents. Cautioned for a poorly timed tackle. 6/10
Declan Rice Deliveries from dead balls and free-kicks were dangerous. Enjoyed room to move on the left but was in an offside position upon receiving in shooting positions. Granted a merited rest after an hour. 6/10
The star midfielder Played in a high spot out wide while also did plenty of defensive duties. Showed moments of class and dragged a shot over. Withdrawn towards the end by Rogers, his competition, after receiving a caution. Seven
The winger Was presented with the team's top opening in the opening period, his strike smartly stopped by the Albanian keeper. With Quansah hanging back, he had to provide width out wide although his balls from wide areas were inconsistent. Replaced with 15 to go. 6
The captain The difference-maker with his two more finishes for his country. The opener a classic poacher’s finish while the second a classy finish with his head having drifted away off his defender. Aged 32, he’s only getting better and England have every chance next summer when he's in the team. Eight
Eberechi Eze Found it tough to influence play from the left. Had a decent opportunity after being played in by the midfielder however Strakosha made the save. His replacement had a greater influence in his place. Five
Substitutes
- Foden (replacing a teammate 63) Looked lively connecting effectively with Kane in a preferred position, 6
- Saka (for Eze 63) Failed to convert but his corner led to the first goal, Six
- Marcus Rashford (replacing the attacker with 15 left) Lively when brought on assisting the captain's brace with superb cross to the back post, 7/10
- Elliot Anderson (for the midfielder in the 75th minute) Appears comfortable so soon, 6/10
- Rogers (replacing Bellingham with minutes remaining) Not enough time to affect things, 6