Squad Assessments: The Three Lions Win Sealed by Kane's Double in International Qualifier
Throughout a dominant display, the English national team secured another victory against their opponents, featuring a number of squad members producing memorable displays throughout the game.
Starting Lineup
The goalkeeper Had little to do required in the first half but then tested by an opponent's curled attempt. A sliding challenge on Qazim Laci demonstrated sharp game intelligence. Six out of ten
The debutant Examined against Albania’s main danger through their forward. Operated more centrally early on then shifted to the flank once Saka was introduced. Seven
John Stones Moved forward when in possession, a familiar role before. Sometimes was too casual in possession with the tactic abandoned by the interval. 6/10
Dan Burn A constant threat from dead balls, per usual, perhaps is another option for Stones in defense rather than alongside him. A careless ball in the second half almost led to a goal from the visitors. Six
Nico O’Reilly Another composed showing by the 20-year-old following his initial appearance against Serbia. A teammate failed to make the opportunity from a clever flick behind the opposing backline. The left-back spot looks secure so soon. Seven
Adam Wharton His maiden beginning in an England shirt. Somewhat careless on the ball though his whipped set-pieces were a threat. A useful game manager available to the coach to call upon against defensive opponents. Shown a yellow for a poorly timed foul. 6/10
The midfielder Set-pieces from dead balls and set-plays caused problems. Was given room to roam in left midfield yet found himself offside as the pass came in shooting positions. Given a merited rest after an hour. 6
The star midfielder Operated in an advanced role out wide and did plenty of dirty work. Showed moments of class and dragged an attempt wide. Withdrawn in the closing stages by a teammate, his rival, after being booked. Seven
Jarrod Bowen Was presented with the team's top opening in the opening period, his effort excellently kept out from the Albanian keeper. With Quansah holding position, he had to offer an outlet down the right side yet his deliveries into the box varied in quality. Substituted for the final quarter-hour. 6
Harry Kane The decisive figure scoring two more finishes for his country. His first a trademark close-range tap-in and his next a superb header after peeling away from his marker. Now 32, he’s only getting better with the national team have every chance in the upcoming tournament when he's in the team. 8
Eberechi Eze Had difficulty to make an impact on the left flank. Had a presentable chance when set up by the midfielder however the keeper made the save. Rashford made much more of influence after coming on. 5
Substitutes
- Foden (replacing Rice on 63 minutes) Looked lively and linked up well with Kane in a preferred position, Six
- Bukayo Saka (on for the winger at the 63-minute mark) Failed to convert but his corner led to the opener, Six
- Marcus Rashford (for the attacker with 15 left) Energetic upon introduction assisting Kane’s second with a brilliant delivery into the area, 7/10
- Elliot Anderson (on for the midfielder in the 75th minute) Seems settled already, 6/10
- Rogers (for the star 84) Too brief a spell to make an impact, Six