Player Evaluations: England Win Secured by Kane's Brace in World Cup Qualifier
During a commanding performance, England wrapped up one more triumph against their opponents, with multiple squad members turning in memorable displays throughout the game.
Starting Eleven
The goalkeeper Was rarely tested required in the first half until called into action by an opponent's bent shot. A sliding challenge on Qazim Laci demonstrated sharp anticipation. 6/10
The debutant Challenged against Albania’s biggest threat in their forward. Played in a central role early on later drifted out wide once Saka was introduced. Seven
John Stones Moved into midfield on the ball, as he has done previously. At times lacked urgency when carrying play with the tactic abandoned by the interval. 6
The tall defender A nuisance on corners and free-kicks, as always, but may be a replacement for Stones in the backline instead of his partner. A loose distribution later in the match came close to a goal from the visitors. Six
Nico O’Reilly One more composed display from the 20-year-old after his first cap against another side. Saka did not capitalize on the opportunity from a gorgeous flick behind the Albania defence. His position is firmly his at this stage. 7
Adam Wharton His first start with the national team. Slightly loose on the ball but his whipped corners caused problems. A handy tempo-setter available to the coach to have against teams who drop deep. Shown a yellow for a rash foul. 6/10
The midfielder Deliveries from dead balls and set-plays caused problems. Was given license to roam on the left but was offside as the pass came in front of goal. Granted a deserved rest after an hour. 6
The star midfielder Functioned in a forward position down the right and also contributed with defensive duties. Displayed flashes of quality but dragged an attempt over. Withdrawn towards the end by Rogers, his competition, after receiving a caution. 7
Jarrod Bowen Had the team's clearest opportunity before halftime, his strike excellently kept out from Thomas Strakosha. As a teammate holding position, he was forced to offer an outlet out wide but his crosses from wide areas were hit and miss. Taken off late in the match. 6
Harry Kane The difference-maker netting two more strikes at international level. The first a typical poacher’s finish and his next a superb finish with his head after peeling away off his defender. Now 32, he’s only getting better and England are strong contenders next summer with him leading the line. Eight
Eberechi Eze Found it tough to get into the game out wide. Had a decent opportunity following a pass by the midfielder yet the keeper kept it out. His replacement produced a bigger effect when substituted. 5/10
Bench Players
- Foden (replacing a teammate 63) Looked lively and linked up well with Kane in more familiar role, 6/10
- Bukayo Saka (for Eze 63) Spurned chances but his corner led to the first goal, 6
- Rashford (for Bowen 75) Active when brought on and set up the captain's brace with a brilliant delivery into the area, Seven
- Anderson (for Wharton in the 75th minute) Seems settled at this level, 6
- Morgan Rogers (for Bellingham with minutes remaining) Too brief a spell to affect things, 6