Player Assessments: The Three Lions Victory Sealed by Kane's Brace in World Cup Qualifying Match
In a dominant showing, the English national team secured one more victory versus Albania, featuring a number of players delivering standout performances during the match.
First-choice Lineup
The goalkeeper Had little to do required during the opening 45 but then forced to intervene by an opponent's curled attempt. One well-timed sliding tackle against Qazim Laci demonstrated excellent reading of the game. 6/10
The debutant Challenged by the opposition's primary attacker in Hoxha. Played in a central role early on later drifted to the flank once Saka was introduced. Seven
John Stones Pushed forward when in possession, as he has done previously. Sometimes seemed hesitant in possession with the approach abandoned by the interval. Six
Dan Burn A constant threat from dead balls, per usual, could serve as another option to Stones at the back rather than paired with him. One wayward distribution after the break came close to a goal from the visitors. Six
The young full-back A further composed showing from the rising star after his initial appearance versus another side. Saka did not capitalize on the opportunity from an exquisite touch over their defense. The role looks secure at this stage. Seven
Adam Wharton His maiden beginning in an England shirt. A bit careless when playing out however his whipped deliveries posed a danger. An effective game manager for the coach to have against defensive opponents. Shown a yellow for a rash tackle. 6
The midfielder Crosses from dead balls and set-plays caused problems. Was given license to roam on the left only to be in an offside position upon receiving in front of goal. Granted a deserved rest on the hour mark. Six
Jude Bellingham Played in a high role down the right and also put in dirty work. Demonstrated moments of class but scuffed an effort over. Substituted late on for a teammate, his competition, following a yellow card. Seven
Jarrod Bowen Was presented with England’s clearest opportunity in the opening period, his strike well saved by the Albanian keeper. As Quansah staying deep, he was forced to offer an outlet out wide although his balls from the touchline were inconsistent. Taken off late in the match. 6
Harry Kane The difference-maker scoring 77th and 78th finishes for his country. The first a classic poacher’s finish while the second a superb header following a clever run away from the opposition. At 32, he continues to improve with the national team stand a real opportunity in the upcoming tournament with him leading the line. 8/10
The attacker Struggled to influence play on the left flank. Was presented with a decent opportunity after being played in by Bellingham however the keeper made the save. His replacement had a greater an impact in his place. 5/10
Substitutes
- Foden (for a teammate 63) Appeared sharp and linked up well with the striker in a preferred position, 6/10
- Saka (for Eze at the 63-minute mark) Spurned chances although his set-piece led to the first goal, Six
- Marcus Rashford (for the attacker 75) Active upon introduction and provided Kane’s second with a brilliant delivery to the far post, 7/10
- Elliot Anderson (on for the midfielder 75) Looks established at this level, 6/10
- Rogers (for Bellingham with minutes remaining) Too brief a spell to influence the game, 6/10