Squad Evaluations: The Three Lions Triumph Sealed by Harry Kane's Double in International Qualifying Match
Throughout a commanding showing, England secured another triumph versus Albania, featuring a number of players producing standout displays on the pitch.
First-choice XI
Dean Henderson Had little to do required before the break until forced to intervene from Arbër Hoxha’s curled attempt. His sliding tackle on an Albanian attacker showed sharp game intelligence. Six out of ten
Jarell Quansah Challenged against Albania’s main danger through their forward. Started in a central role to begin with then shifted out wide once Saka was introduced. 7
The defender Moved up the pitch when in possession, as he has done before. On occasion seemed hesitant on the ball and the tactic was shelved by the interval. Six
The tall defender A constant threat from dead balls, as always, perhaps is another option to his teammate in defense rather than paired with him. A loose pass later in the match almost led to the first goal from Albania. Six
The young full-back Another composed showing by the rising star after his first cap against Serbia. A teammate was unable to take the most of a gorgeous backheel over their defense. The role is firmly his already. 7/10
Adam Wharton His maiden beginning in an England shirt. A bit careless when playing out however his whipped corners caused problems. An effective game manager for the coach to have against sides that sit back. Booked for a poorly timed challenge. Six
Declan Rice Crosses from dead balls and free-kicks created chances. Enjoyed freedom to roam down the left flank but was offside upon receiving in shooting positions. Granted a well-earned rest after an hour. Six
The star midfielder Played in a forward role on the right while also put in dirty work. Demonstrated flashes of quality but mishit a shot over. Replaced towards the end for a teammate, his competition, after receiving a caution. 7/10
The winger Had the team's best chance before halftime, his effort smartly stopped from the opposing goalkeeper. With a teammate holding position, it fell to him to stretch the play on the right yet his deliveries from the touchline were inconsistent. Replaced with 15 to go. Six
Harry Kane The match-winner scoring 77th and 78th goals in an England shirt. The first a classic opportunist's goal while the second a classy finish with his head having drifted away away from the opposition. Now 32, his form is unwavering with the national team have every chance in the upcoming tournament with him up top. 8
Eberechi Eze Struggled to influence play from the left. Was presented with a decent opportunity when set up by the midfielder yet Strakosha kept it out. His replacement made much more of an impact when substituted. Five
Substitutes
- Phil Foden (replacing a teammate on 63 minutes) Looked lively connecting seamlessly with Kane in a preferred position, 6
- Saka (for Eze at the 63-minute mark) Failed to convert although his set-piece led to the opener, 6
- Marcus Rashford (replacing the attacker with 15 left) Active when brought on assisting Kane’s second with a brilliant delivery to the far post, 7
- Anderson (for Wharton in the 75th minute) Seems settled so soon, 6/10
- Morgan Rogers (replacing the star 84) Insufficient minutes to affect things, 6