Player Evaluations: The Three Lions Triumph Secured by Kane's Double in World Cup Qualifying Match
Throughout a dominant display, England wrapped up another win versus their opponents, with a number of squad members producing standout performances during the match.
First-choice Lineup
Dean Henderson Was rarely tested to make in the first half but then called into action by Arbër Hoxha’s curled attempt. One well-timed sliding tackle against an Albanian attacker demonstrated his anticipation. 6/10
The debutant Challenged by Albania’s primary attacker through their forward. Operated in a central role early on later drifted wider after a teammate entered the fray. 7
John Stones Pushed up the pitch with the ball at his feet, a familiar role in the past. Sometimes seemed hesitant in possession and the tactic discontinued at half-time. 6
Dan Burn A constant threat at set pieces, typically, but may be another option to his teammate in defense instead of his partner. A loose ball later in the match nearly resulted in the first goal from the visitors. 6
Nico O’Reilly Another assured showing by the 20-year-old after his first cap against Serbia. Saka did not capitalize on the most of a gorgeous flick behind the opposing backline. The role is firmly his so soon. Seven
The newcomer His first start in an England shirt. Slightly loose on the ball however his inswinging corners posed a danger. A useful tempo-setter available to the boss to have versus defensive opponents. Booked after a reckless foul. Six
The midfielder Set-pieces on corner kicks and set-plays created chances. Enjoyed room to roam down the left flank but was offside when the ball arrived with a chance to score. Given a well-earned break after an hour. 6/10
The star midfielder Played in a high position out wide and also did plenty of the hard yards. Demonstrated moments of class but scuffed a shot wide. Replaced towards the end by a teammate, his competition, following a yellow card. 7
The winger Had the team's top opening before halftime, his shot well saved from Thomas Strakosha. As Quansah holding position, he had to provide width down the right side but his crosses from the touchline were inconsistent. Replaced with 15 to go. 6
Harry Kane The decisive figure with his 77th and 78th finishes in an England shirt. The first a classic opportunist's goal while the second a superb headed goal following a clever run away from the opposition. Aged 32, he’s only getting better with the national team are strong contenders next summer when he's in the team. 8/10
The attacker Had difficulty to influence play out wide. Had a decent opportunity following a pass by the midfielder but the keeper made the save. Rashford had a greater effect in his place. 5/10
Substitutes
- Foden (replacing a teammate 63) Was bright and combined well with the striker in a natural spot, 6
- Saka (on for the winger at the 63-minute mark) Spurned chances yet his delivery created the opener, 6/10
- Rashford (for Bowen with 15 left) Energetic after coming on and provided the second goal via an excellent ball to the back post, Seven
- Elliot Anderson (for the midfielder in the 75th minute) Appears comfortable at this level, 6
- Rogers (for the star 84) Not enough time to affect things, Six