Squad Evaluations: The Three Lions Victory Secured by Kane's Double in World Cup Qualifier
During a dominant showing, England secured another triumph against Albania, with multiple players delivering memorable performances throughout the game.
Starting XI
Dean Henderson Was rarely tested required in the first half until called into action by an opponent's curled attempt. His sliding challenge on an Albanian attacker highlighted excellent reading of the game. 6/10
The debutant Examined against the opposition's primary attacker in their forward. Started more centrally initially then shifted out wide after Saka came on. 7
John Stones Moved up the pitch on the ball, something he's known for previously. On occasion seemed hesitant on the ball with the approach discontinued after the break. Six
Dan Burn Always dangerous from dead balls, typically, perhaps is another option for Stones at the back instead of alongside him. One wayward ball after the break nearly resulted in the first goal for Albania. Six
The young full-back A further composed display from the 20-year-old following his initial appearance versus another side. Saka did not capitalize on the most of a clever backheel over the opposing backline. His position is his to lose so soon. 7
Adam Wharton His first start for his country. A bit sloppy when playing out though his dangerous set-pieces posed a danger. A handy game manager available to the boss to call upon against defensive opponents. Booked after a reckless challenge. 6/10
Declan Rice Crosses from dead balls and free kicks were dangerous. Was given license to drift in left midfield only to be in an offside position when the ball arrived in shooting positions. Awarded a merited rest after an hour. 6
The star midfielder Played in an advanced spot on the right and put in the hard yards. Displayed moments of class but scuffed an attempt high. Replaced late on for a teammate, his rival, following a yellow card. 7
Jarrod Bowen Was presented with England’s top opening before halftime, his effort well saved by the opposing goalkeeper. As Quansah hanging back, it fell to him to offer an outlet down the right side but his crosses into the box varied in quality. Taken off for the final quarter-hour. 6/10
Harry Kane The match-winner with his two more strikes at international level. His first a typical poacher’s finish and the second a superb header after peeling away away from the opposition. Now 32, he’s only getting better and England have every chance in the upcoming tournament with him up top. Eight
The attacker Had difficulty to get into the game on the left flank. Was presented with a presentable chance following a pass by the midfielder but Strakosha denied him. Rashford had a greater effect after coming on. 5
Replacements
- Phil Foden (for Rice on 63 minutes) Looked lively connecting seamlessly with the striker in a preferred position, Six
- Bukayo Saka (on for Eze 63) Failed to convert although his set-piece provided the breakthrough, Six
- Marcus Rashford (for the attacker with 15 left) Energetic after coming on and set up the second goal with superb cross into the area, Seven
- Elliot Anderson (on for the midfielder in the 75th minute) Seems settled so soon, 6/10
- Morgan Rogers (replacing the star with minutes remaining) Insufficient minutes to influence the game, 6