Squad Evaluations: England Triumph Sealed by Harry Kane's Double in International Qualifier
During a dominant display, England secured a further win against Albania, featuring a number of squad members turning in standout performances on the pitch.
Starting Lineup
Dean Henderson Had little to do to perform before the break before tested from Arbër Hoxha’s bent shot. His sliding tackle against Qazim Laci demonstrated sharp anticipation. 6/10
The debutant Challenged against Albania’s biggest threat through Hoxha. Started more centrally initially but moved out wide after Saka was introduced. 7
John Stones Moved into midfield when in possession, something he's known for before. On occasion seemed hesitant in possession and the approach discontinued after the break. 6/10
The tall defender A nuisance at set pieces, per usual, perhaps is another option for Stones in the backline rather than paired with him. A careless distribution after the break almost led to an opener from Albania. 6
The young full-back One more assured display by the rising star following his initial appearance against Serbia. Saka failed to make the opportunity from a clever backheel over the Albania defence. His position is firmly his already. Seven
The newcomer A debut start in an England shirt. Slightly sloppy on the ball but his inswinging set-pieces caused problems. A handy game manager for the coach to call upon versus defensive opponents. Booked for a poorly timed foul. Six
Declan Rice Deliveries from dead balls and free-kicks created chances. Was given freedom to roam on the left only to be offside when the ball arrived in shooting positions. Awarded a well-earned break after an hour. 6/10
The star midfielder Operated in a forward spot down the right and also contributed with the hard yards. Displayed flashes of quality and mishit a shot wide. Substituted late on for Rogers, a fellow player, after being booked. 7/10
Jarrod Bowen Had the team's clearest opportunity in the opening period, his strike excellently kept out by Thomas Strakosha. As a teammate holding position, he was forced to provide width down the right side yet his deliveries from wide areas were inconsistent. Substituted late in the match. 6/10
Harry Kane The match-winner scoring two more finishes in an England shirt. The opener a classic close-range tap-in and his next a superb headed goal following a clever run away from the opposition. Aged 32, his form is unwavering with the national team are strong contenders next summer with him leading the line. 8/10
The attacker Found it tough to influence play out wide. Was presented with a good opening after being played in from a teammate however Strakosha kept it out. His replacement had a greater an impact when substituted. Five
Replacements
- Foden (replacing Rice 63) Appeared sharp and combined seamlessly with Kane in a preferred position, 6/10
- Saka (on for Eze 63) Failed to convert but his corner provided the breakthrough, 6
- Rashford (for Bowen 75) Lively upon introduction and provided the captain's brace with superb cross to the back post, 7/10
- Elliot Anderson (on for Wharton 75) Looks established so soon, Six
- Morgan Rogers (for the star 84) Insufficient minutes to affect things, 6