Squad Evaluations: The Three Lions Win Sealed by Harry Kane's Double in World Cup Qualifier
Throughout a dominant display, England wrapped up another victory versus Albania, featuring multiple players turning in standout performances on the pitch.
First-choice XI
The goalkeeper Was rarely tested to perform in the first half but then called into action by Arbër Hoxha’s curling effort. One well-timed sliding intervention on an Albanian attacker demonstrated his anticipation. Six out of ten
The debutant Examined against the opposition's main danger in their forward. Played through the middle to begin with then shifted out wide once a teammate came on. 7
The defender Advanced into midfield when in possession, as he has done previously. At times seemed hesitant in possession with the experiment discontinued after the break. 6
Dan Burn A nuisance from dead balls, typically, perhaps is another option for Stones in defense instead of paired with him. A loose distribution after the break nearly resulted in an opener from the visitors. 6
Nico O’Reilly A further assured performance from the 20-year-old following his debut versus Serbia. A teammate failed to make the opportunity from an exquisite touch over the opposing backline. The role is firmly his so soon. Seven
Adam Wharton His first start in an England shirt. Somewhat loose in possession however his whipped deliveries caused problems. A handy tempo-setter for the manager to utilize against sides that sit back. Booked after a reckless tackle. 6/10
The midfielder Crosses from dead balls and free kicks were dangerous. Enjoyed room to drift down the left flank but was offside upon receiving in shooting positions. Awarded a well-earned substitution around the 60-minute point. 6
Jude Bellingham Operated in an advanced spot out wide and did plenty of dirty work. Displayed glimpses of brilliance but mishit an effort over. Replaced in the closing stages for a teammate, his competition, following a yellow card. 7
Jarrod Bowen Had England’s clearest opportunity before halftime, his strike well saved by the opposing goalkeeper. As Quansah staying deep, it fell to him to provide width on the right but his crosses into the box were inconsistent. Substituted for the final quarter-hour. 6/10
The captain The match-winner with his 77th and 78th finishes at international level. The opener a typical close-range tap-in and the second a classy finish with his head after peeling away off his defender. Aged 32, he continues to improve and England are strong contenders in the upcoming tournament when he's in the team. 8
The attacker Struggled to make an impact on the left flank. Was presented with a decent opportunity after being played in from a teammate yet the keeper kept it out. His replacement had a greater an impact after coming on. Five
Substitutes
- Phil Foden (replacing Rice 63) Appeared sharp and combined well with Kane in a natural spot, Six
- Saka (on for the winger 63) Failed to convert yet his delivery provided the first goal, Six
- Marcus Rashford (replacing Bowen with 15 left) Active upon introduction and set up the second goal via an excellent ball to the back post, 7/10
- Anderson (for Wharton 75) Seems settled so soon, 6/10
- Rogers (for Bellingham with minutes remaining) Insufficient minutes to affect things, 6/10