Player Evaluations: The Three Lions Victory Secured by Kane's Double in International Qualifying Match
During a commanding showing, the English national team wrapped up another triumph against Albania, featuring several squad members turning in notable displays during the match.
First-choice Lineup
The goalkeeper Had little to do required in the first half until forced to intervene from an opponent's curling effort. One well-timed sliding tackle on an Albanian attacker showed sharp anticipation. 6/10
The debutant Examined against the opposition's primary attacker through their forward. Operated through the middle initially but moved to the flank once a teammate entered the fray. 7/10
John Stones Advanced up the pitch when in possession, something he's known for previously. On occasion lacked urgency on the ball with the experiment abandoned after the break. Six
Dan Burn A constant threat on corners and free-kicks, as always, could serve as a replacement for his teammate in the backline rather than alongside him. A loose ball later in the match almost led to an opener for the visitors. 6/10
The young full-back Another composed display from the 20-year-old following his debut versus Serbia. Saka failed to make full advantage of a clever backheel over the Albania defence. The left-back spot looks secure at this stage. 7/10
Adam Wharton His maiden beginning with the national team. Somewhat careless when playing out however his whipped deliveries caused problems. An effective tempo-setter available to the coach to have versus defensive opponents. Booked for a poorly timed foul. Six
The midfielder Deliveries from dead balls and set-plays caused problems. Was given license to move on the left yet found himself offside upon receiving in front of goal. Awarded a merited substitution after an hour. 6
The star midfielder Operated in an advanced role on the right and contributed with defensive duties. Displayed glimpses of brilliance and dragged a shot high. Withdrawn late on by Rogers, a fellow player, after receiving a caution. 7/10
Jarrod Bowen Was presented with the team's clearest opportunity of the first half, his strike excellently kept out from Thomas Strakosha. As a teammate staying deep, he was forced to provide width on the right but his crosses from the touchline varied in quality. Taken off with 15 to go. 6/10
Harry Kane The match-winner netting seventy-seventh and seventy-eighth strikes for his country. His first a classic opportunist's goal and the second a classy headed goal having drifted away away from the opposition. At 32, he continues to improve and the side are strong contenders in future competitions when he's in the team. 8
Eberechi Eze Struggled to influence play out wide. Had a presentable chance following a pass by the midfielder however the keeper denied him. Rashford made much more of effect after coming on. 5/10
Bench Players
- Phil Foden (replacing Rice on 63 minutes) Looked lively and linked up seamlessly with Kane in a preferred position, 6
- Saka (for Eze 63) Failed to convert although his set-piece led to the opener, 6/10
- Rashford (for Bowen with 15 left) Energetic upon introduction and provided the second goal with superb cross to the far post, 7
- Anderson (for the midfielder in the 75th minute) Looks established already, 6/10
- Morgan Rogers (for the star with minutes remaining) Not enough time to make an impact, 6