Player Assessments: England Triumph Sealed by Harry Kane's Double in International Qualifier
Throughout a commanding performance, the English national team clinched one more victory versus Albania, with a number of players producing standout displays during the match.
Starting XI
Dean Henderson Had little to do required before the break until forced to intervene from an opponent's curled attempt. One well-timed sliding tackle against an Albanian attacker showed his game intelligence. Six out of ten
Jarell Quansah Challenged against Albania’s biggest threat in Hoxha. Played more centrally early on but moved to the flank after a teammate entered the fray. 7/10
The defender Moved into midfield when in possession, as he has done in the past. On occasion was too casual on the ball and the approach was shelved after the break. 6
The tall defender A nuisance at set pieces, typically, but may be a replacement for Stones in the backline as opposed to his partner. A loose pass after the break nearly resulted in an opener for the visitors. Six
Nico O’Reilly A further assured showing from the 20-year-old after his debut against another side. Saka did not capitalize on full advantage of an exquisite backheel behind their defense. The left-back spot is his to lose so soon. 7
The newcomer His maiden beginning for his country. Somewhat loose when playing out though his dangerous set-pieces caused problems. A useful game manager for the manager to call upon against sides that sit back. Booked after a reckless foul. 6
The midfielder Set-pieces from corners and free-kicks caused problems. Was given license to move down the left flank but was in an offside position as the pass came in front of goal. Awarded a deserved rest around the 60-minute point. Six
Jude Bellingham Played in a forward role down the right and put in defensive duties. Demonstrated flashes of quality and scuffed a shot over. Withdrawn late on by Rogers, his competition, after receiving a caution. Seven
Jarrod Bowen Was presented with the team's top opening before halftime, his strike excellently kept out from the Albanian keeper. With a teammate staying deep, it fell to him to stretch the play out wide yet his deliveries into the box were inconsistent. Substituted with 15 to go. 6/10
The captain The match-winner scoring two more strikes for his country. His first a trademark poacher’s finish and his next an excellent header having drifted away off his defender. Aged 32, his form is unwavering and England have every chance next summer with him leading the line. 8/10
The attacker Had difficulty to make an impact on the left flank. Was presented with a presentable chance following a pass by the midfielder yet the keeper denied him. Rashford made much more of an impact in his place. Five
Substitutes
- Phil Foden (for Rice on 63 minutes) Looked lively and combined well with the striker in a natural spot, Six
- Bukayo Saka (for the winger 63) Missed opportunities yet his delivery led to the breakthrough, Six
- Rashford (for Bowen 75) Active when brought on assisting the captain's brace with superb cross to the back post, Seven
- Elliot Anderson (on for Wharton in the 75th minute) Appears comfortable at this level, 6
- Rogers (for Bellingham 84) Insufficient minutes to influence the game, 6/10