Squad Evaluations: England Triumph Secured by Harry Kane's Double in International Qualifying Match
Throughout a impressive performance, England secured another triumph versus Albania, featuring a number of squad members turning in memorable performances during the match.
First-choice XI
Dean Henderson Was rarely tested to perform before the break before called into action from an opponent's curled attempt. His sliding tackle against an Albanian attacker highlighted his reading of the game. 6/10
The debutant Tested by Albania’s main danger in their forward. Started in a central role early on then shifted to the flank once a teammate was introduced. 7
John Stones Advanced up the pitch on the ball, as he has done in the past. At times seemed hesitant on the ball with the tactic was shelved by the interval. Six
Dan Burn A nuisance on corners and free-kicks, typically, but may be an alternative for Stones in the backline rather than his partner. A loose pass after the break came close to the first goal from the visitors. Six
The young full-back Another assured performance from the rising star after his initial appearance versus Serbia. A teammate was unable to take full advantage of an exquisite flick over their defense. The left-back spot is firmly his at this stage. Seven
The newcomer A debut start in an England shirt. Slightly sloppy in possession but his dangerous deliveries posed a danger. A handy pace-controller available to the manager to call upon versus defensive opponents. Cautioned for a poorly timed tackle. Six
The midfielder Crosses from corners and set-plays were dangerous. Was given license to drift in left midfield only to be offside when the ball arrived in front of goal. Awarded a deserved rest on the hour mark. 6
The star midfielder Played in an advanced spot on the right while also put in the hard yards. Demonstrated flashes of quality and scuffed an effort wide. Substituted late on by a teammate, a fellow player, following a yellow card. Seven
Jarrod Bowen Was presented with the team's top opening in the opening period, his strike well saved from Thomas Strakosha. With a teammate staying deep, he was forced to offer an outlet out wide although his balls from the touchline were inconsistent. Replaced with 15 to go. Six
The captain The match-winner with his two more finishes in an England shirt. His first a classic opportunist's goal and the second an excellent headed goal following a clever run from his marker. Aged 32, his form is unwavering with the national team have every chance in the upcoming tournament with him leading the line. 8
The attacker Had difficulty to influence play on the left flank. Had a decent opportunity following a pass by Bellingham yet Strakosha kept it out. His replacement had a greater effect after coming on. 5/10
Bench Players
- Phil Foden (replacing a teammate 63) Appeared sharp and linked up seamlessly with Kane in a natural spot, Six
- Saka (on for the winger 63) Failed to convert yet his delivery led to the first goal, 6
- Rashford (for the attacker with 15 left) Energetic when brought on and set up the second goal with a brilliant delivery to the back post, 7
- Elliot Anderson (on for Wharton in the 75th minute) Seems settled already, 6
- Rogers (replacing Bellingham 84) Insufficient minutes to influence the game, 6/10