Squad Assessments: The Three Lions Triumph Sealed by Harry Kane's Double in World Cup Qualifier
Throughout a commanding performance, England wrapped up one more triumph against Albania, with multiple squad members turning in standout displays during the match.
First-choice Eleven
The goalkeeper Had little to do required during the opening 45 until called into action from an opponent's bent shot. A sliding tackle on Qazim Laci highlighted his game intelligence. Six out of ten
The debutant Challenged against Albania’s biggest threat through Hoxha. Operated more centrally to begin with later drifted out wide after a teammate was introduced. 7
John Stones Pushed up the pitch on the ball, something he's known for in the past. On occasion was too casual when carrying play and the experiment discontinued at half-time. Six
Dan Burn A nuisance from dead balls, per usual, perhaps is a replacement to Stones in defense instead of alongside him. A careless pass later in the match came close to an opener from the visitors. 6
The young full-back One more assured showing from the rising star following his debut against another side. A teammate failed to make the most of a gorgeous touch behind the opposing backline. His position is his to lose already. 7
Adam Wharton His maiden beginning with the national team. Slightly sloppy on the ball though his inswinging set-pieces caused problems. A useful pace-controller available to the coach to utilize versus teams who drop deep. Cautioned for a rash challenge. 6
Declan Rice Deliveries from corners and set-plays were dangerous. Had room to move in left midfield but was in an offside position as the pass came in shooting positions. Granted a well-earned substitution on the hour mark. 6
The star midfielder Played in an advanced role down the right and also put in the hard yards. Displayed glimpses of brilliance and dragged a shot wide. Substituted late on for Rogers, his competition, after being booked. Seven
The winger Had England’s clearest opportunity in the opening period, his effort well saved by Thomas Strakosha. As Quansah hanging back, it fell to him to offer an outlet on the right yet his deliveries into the box were hit and miss. Replaced with 15 to go. 6/10
The captain The difference-maker with his seventy-seventh and seventy-eighth goals for his country. The opener a typical poacher’s finish while the second a classy header having drifted away off his defender. Aged 32, he continues to improve and England have every chance next summer when he's in the team. 8
Eberechi Eze Had difficulty to influence play from the left. Had a presentable chance when set up from a teammate yet Strakosha denied him. Rashford made much more of an impact when substituted. Five
Bench Players
- Phil Foden (replacing a teammate on 63 minutes) Was bright and linked up seamlessly with Kane in a preferred position, 6/10
- Bukayo Saka (on for the winger 63) Missed opportunities but his corner led to the first goal, 6
- Marcus Rashford (for the attacker with 15 left) Energetic upon introduction and set up the captain's brace with superb cross to the far post, 7
- Elliot Anderson (for the midfielder 75) Appears comfortable so soon, Six
- Morgan Rogers (replacing Bellingham with minutes remaining) Insufficient minutes to influence the game, Six