Squad Evaluations: England Win Secured by Kane's Double in World Cup Qualifier
During a dominant performance, the English national team clinched a further triumph versus their opponents, with a number of players turning in notable displays during the match.
First-choice Eleven
The goalkeeper Not a save required before the break until called into action from an opponent's bent shot. His sliding tackle on an Albanian attacker highlighted excellent reading of the game. Six out of ten
The debutant Challenged against Albania’s primary attacker through their forward. Operated more centrally early on but moved out wide once a teammate entered the fray. Seven
The defender Moved forward when in possession, something he's known for in the past. On occasion was too casual on the ball and the tactic was shelved after the break. Six
Dan Burn A constant threat from dead balls, typically, could serve as another option to his teammate at the back as opposed to his partner. A careless distribution after the break nearly resulted in an opener for Albania. Six
The young full-back A further composed showing by the rising star after his debut against another side. A teammate did not capitalize on the opportunity from a gorgeous touch behind the Albania defence. The role is his to lose at this stage. 7/10
Adam Wharton His first start for his country. A bit sloppy on the ball though his inswinging deliveries were a threat. An effective pace-controller available to the boss to call upon against defensive opponents. Cautioned for a poorly timed challenge. 6
Declan Rice Set-pieces on corner kicks and free kicks created chances. Enjoyed freedom to roam on the left only to be offside upon receiving in front of goal. Given a deserved substitution after an hour. 6/10
Jude Bellingham Operated in a forward role out wide and also put in defensive duties. Displayed moments of class but mishit an attempt high. Withdrawn towards the end by Rogers, his competition, after being booked. 7/10
The winger Was presented with the team's clearest opportunity of the first half, his shot excellently kept out from Thomas Strakosha. With Quansah staying deep, it fell to him to provide width on the right but his crosses into the box were inconsistent. Substituted late in the match. 6/10
The captain The decisive figure with his two more finishes at international level. The opener a typical opportunist's goal while the second a classy finish with his head after peeling away away from the opposition. Aged 32, he’s only getting better and England are strong contenders in future competitions with him leading the line. 8/10
Eberechi Eze Found it tough to get into the game from the left. Had a decent opportunity when set up by the midfielder yet the keeper made the save. Rashford made much more of an impact after coming on. 5/10
Substitutes
- Phil Foden (replacing a teammate on 63 minutes) Appeared sharp connecting seamlessly with Kane in a natural spot, 6/10
- Saka (on for the winger 63) Missed opportunities yet his delivery led to the breakthrough, 6/10
- Rashford (replacing the attacker with 15 left) Active upon introduction and provided the captain's brace via an excellent ball into the area, Seven
- Anderson (on for Wharton in the 75th minute) Looks established so soon, 6
- Rogers (for the star with minutes remaining) Not enough time to make an impact, 6