Squad Assessments: The Three Lions Victory Sealed by Harry Kane's Double in International Qualifying Match
In a dominant showing, the English national team wrapped up a further triumph against their opponents, with multiple players producing standout performances during the match.
Starting XI
Dean Henderson Was rarely tested to perform during the opening 45 but then called into action from an opponent's curling effort. His sliding tackle against Qazim Laci highlighted his game intelligence. Six out of ten
The debutant Tested by Albania’s main danger through Hoxha. Played through the middle early on then shifted wider once a teammate was introduced. 7
The defender Moved up the pitch on the ball, as he has done previously. Sometimes lacked urgency in possession with the tactic discontinued after the break. 6
The tall defender A constant threat at set pieces, as always, but may be a replacement for his teammate in the backline rather than paired with him. A loose pass after the break almost led to a goal for Albania. Six
Nico O’Reilly Another assured performance from the rising star following his initial appearance versus Serbia. A teammate did not capitalize on the opportunity from a clever touch over the Albania defence. His position is his to lose at this stage. 7/10
Adam Wharton His first start in an England shirt. Slightly careless on the ball but his whipped set-pieces caused problems. An effective game manager for the boss to have against teams who drop deep. Cautioned for a poorly timed foul. 6
The midfielder Crosses on corner kicks and set-plays caused problems. Enjoyed freedom to roam down the left flank but was offside when the ball arrived in front of goal. Awarded a merited substitution after an hour. 6
The star midfielder Played in a forward role on the right and did plenty of dirty work. Displayed flashes of quality and dragged an attempt wide. Replaced in the closing stages for Rogers, his rival, after being booked. 7/10
The winger Had England’s clearest opportunity before halftime, his shot excellently kept out from the opposing goalkeeper. With a teammate holding position, he was forced to stretch the play on the right but his crosses from the touchline varied in quality. Substituted with 15 to go. 6
The captain The difference-maker with his two more finishes for his country. The opener a typical opportunist's goal while the second a classy header following a clever run from his marker. At 32, he’s only getting better and England are strong contenders in future competitions when he's in the team. Eight
Eberechi Eze Had difficulty to get into the game out wide. Had a good opening after being played in by the midfielder however Strakosha denied him. Rashford made much more of effect in his place. 5
Bench Players
- Foden (replacing a teammate 63) Looked lively and linked up effectively with Kane in more familiar role, 6
- Bukayo Saka (for Eze 63) Spurned chances although his set-piece created the opener, Six
- Marcus Rashford (replacing the attacker with 15 left) Active upon introduction assisting the captain's brace with a brilliant delivery to the back post, 7
- Anderson (for Wharton 75) Seems settled so soon, 6
- Morgan Rogers (for Bellingham with minutes remaining) Insufficient minutes to affect things, 6