Player Assessments: England Victory Sealed by Harry Kane's Double in International Qualifier
In a commanding showing, the English national team secured another win versus Albania, featuring a number of squad members turning in standout displays throughout the game.
First-choice Eleven
The goalkeeper Not a save to make in the first half until tested by Arbër Hoxha’s curling effort. A sliding tackle on an Albanian attacker demonstrated sharp anticipation. Six out of ten
Jarell Quansah Tested against the opposition's biggest threat through Hoxha. Operated more centrally initially but moved to the flank after Saka was introduced. 7/10
The defender Moved forward when in possession, something he's known for in the past. On occasion was too casual in possession and the experiment was shelved at half-time. 6
Dan Burn Always dangerous from dead balls, per usual, but may be a replacement to his teammate in the backline instead of his partner. One wayward pass after the break nearly resulted in the first goal from the visitors. 6/10
Nico O’Reilly One more assured performance by the rising star following his initial appearance versus another side. Saka did not capitalize on the opportunity from a clever backheel behind their defense. The role looks secure at this stage. Seven
Adam Wharton His maiden beginning in an England shirt. Somewhat sloppy when playing out however his dangerous corners posed a danger. An effective tempo-setter available to the coach to have versus sides that sit back. Cautioned after a reckless foul. 6
The midfielder Deliveries on corner kicks and free kicks created chances. Enjoyed room to drift down the left flank but was in an offside position upon receiving in front of goal. Awarded a deserved substitution after an hour. 6
The star midfielder Functioned in a forward position on the right and also did plenty of dirty work. Displayed flashes of quality and scuffed an effort high. Replaced in the closing stages by Rogers, his rival, after being booked. 7/10
Jarrod Bowen Had England’s clearest opportunity of the first half, his shot smartly stopped by the opposing goalkeeper. As a teammate holding position, he was forced to offer an outlet on the right although his balls from wide areas varied in quality. Replaced with 15 to go. 6/10
The captain The decisive figure scoring 77th and 78th goals for his country. The opener a trademark close-range tap-in while the second an excellent headed goal after peeling away away from the opposition. At 32, he’s only getting better and the side stand a real opportunity in future competitions with him leading the line. 8
Eberechi Eze Had difficulty to make an impact out wide. Was presented with a presentable chance after being played in from a teammate yet the keeper denied him. His replacement produced a bigger influence after coming on. Five
Substitutes
- Foden (for Rice on 63 minutes) Looked lively and linked up well with Kane in a preferred position, Six
- Saka (for Eze 63) Failed to convert although his set-piece created the opener, 6
- Rashford (for Bowen with 15 left) Lively upon introduction and provided the second goal with a brilliant delivery to the far post, Seven
- Elliot Anderson (for the midfielder 75) Looks established so soon, Six
- Rogers (replacing the star with minutes remaining) Too brief a spell to influence the game, 6/10