Squad Assessments: England Victory Secured by Harry Kane's Brace in World Cup Qualifier
In a impressive display, the English national team secured a further triumph versus Albania, with a number of squad members turning in notable performances throughout the game.
First-choice Eleven
The goalkeeper Not a save to make before the break until forced to intervene from an opponent's bent shot. One well-timed sliding tackle on an Albanian attacker demonstrated sharp game intelligence. 6/10
Jarell Quansah Tested by the opposition's biggest threat in their forward. Played in a central role initially then shifted out wide after Saka was introduced. 7/10
John Stones Pushed into midfield on the ball, a familiar role before. Sometimes lacked urgency when carrying play with the approach discontinued at half-time. 6/10
The tall defender A nuisance on corners and free-kicks, typically, perhaps is another option for Stones in defense as opposed to his partner. One wayward pass after the break came close to an opener from Albania. 6
Nico O’Reilly Another confident performance by the youngster following his debut versus Serbia. Saka failed to make the most of a clever backheel over their defense. His position looks secure already. 7/10
Adam Wharton A debut start in an England shirt. Slightly sloppy in possession however his whipped set-pieces caused problems. An effective game manager available to the boss to have against defensive opponents. Cautioned for a rash challenge. 6
The midfielder Crosses from dead balls and set-plays created chances. Enjoyed freedom to roam down the left flank but was in an offside position when the ball arrived in shooting positions. Granted a deserved rest around the 60-minute point. 6
The star midfielder Operated in a high position on the right and also put in defensive duties. Displayed moments of class but mishit an effort wide. Replaced late on for a teammate, a fellow player, after receiving a caution. 7/10
The winger Had the team's clearest opportunity in the opening period, his strike excellently kept out by the opposing goalkeeper. With a teammate staying deep, he was forced to provide width down the right side but his crosses from the touchline varied in quality. Taken off late in the match. 6
Harry Kane The match-winner with his 77th and 78th goals for his country. His first a classic close-range tap-in while the second a classy headed goal following a clever run away from the opposition. Now 32, he continues to improve and England have every chance in the upcoming tournament when he's in the team. 8/10
Eberechi Eze Struggled to get into the game on the left flank. Was presented with a decent opportunity following a pass from a teammate but Strakosha denied him. His replacement produced a bigger influence in his place. 5
Bench Players
- Foden (replacing Rice on 63 minutes) Appeared sharp connecting effectively with Kane in a natural spot, 6/10
- Saka (for Eze at the 63-minute mark) Missed opportunities but his corner created the opener, 6/10
- Rashford (for the attacker with 15 left) Energetic when brought on and provided the captain's brace via an excellent ball into the area, Seven
- Anderson (for the midfielder 75) Seems settled so soon, 6/10
- Rogers (for Bellingham with minutes remaining) Insufficient minutes to affect things, 6/10