Squad Evaluations: The Three Lions Victory Secured by Harry Kane's Brace in World Cup Qualifying Match
During a impressive performance, England secured a further triumph versus their opponents, featuring a number of squad members producing memorable performances on the pitch.
First-choice Eleven
Dean Henderson Had little to do to perform in the first half before forced to intervene from an opponent's bent shot. His sliding tackle against an Albanian attacker demonstrated excellent reading of the game. Six out of ten
Jarell Quansah Tested by Albania’s primary attacker in their forward. Operated through the middle to begin with then shifted wider after Saka came on. 7
John Stones Pushed up the pitch when in possession, something he's known for before. Sometimes was too casual when carrying play and the experiment abandoned after the break. 6/10
The tall defender A nuisance on corners and free-kicks, typically, could serve as an alternative for his teammate at the back instead of paired with him. A loose ball in the second half almost led to an opener from the visitors. 6/10
The young full-back One more composed display from the rising star after his first cap against another side. Saka failed to make the opportunity from a clever touch behind the Albania defence. The role looks secure at this stage. Seven
The newcomer His first start for his country. A bit careless on the ball though his whipped corners posed a danger. A useful pace-controller for the manager to have versus defensive opponents. Booked after a reckless tackle. 6/10
Declan Rice Crosses on corner kicks and set-plays were dangerous. Had room to move on the left yet found himself in an offside position when the ball arrived with a chance to score. Granted a deserved substitution around the 60-minute point. 6/10
The star midfielder Functioned in an advanced position out wide while also contributed with defensive duties. Showed moments of class and dragged an attempt over. Replaced towards the end for a teammate, his rival, after receiving a caution. Seven
The winger Was presented with England’s top opening in the opening period, his effort excellently kept out from Thomas Strakosha. With a teammate holding position, it fell to him to provide width down the right side yet his deliveries from wide areas were hit and miss. Substituted for the final quarter-hour. Six
Harry Kane The match-winner with his 77th and 78th finishes for his country. The opener a trademark poacher’s finish and his next a superb finish with his head having drifted away from his marker. Now 32, his form is unwavering and the side have every chance next summer when he's in the team. Eight
The attacker Found it tough to get into the game on the left flank. Had a presentable chance when set up by Bellingham yet Strakosha denied him. His replacement produced a bigger an impact in his place. 5/10
Replacements
- Foden (replacing a teammate 63) Appeared sharp connecting effectively with Kane in more familiar role, Six
- Bukayo Saka (on for the winger 63) Missed opportunities although his set-piece provided the breakthrough, 6/10
- Rashford (for the attacker 75) Lively when brought on and provided the captain's brace with a brilliant delivery into the area, 7
- Elliot Anderson (for Wharton 75) Appears comfortable so soon, Six
- Rogers (replacing the star 84) Not enough time to influence the game, Six