Player Evaluations: England Triumph Sealed by Harry Kane's Double in World Cup Qualifier
Throughout a impressive performance, England clinched another win versus Albania, featuring multiple squad members producing memorable performances on the pitch.
First-choice XI
The goalkeeper Was rarely tested required before the break before forced to intervene by Arbër Hoxha’s curling effort. One well-timed sliding intervention on Qazim Laci highlighted his game intelligence. Six out of ten
The debutant Examined against the opposition's primary attacker through their forward. Played in a central role to begin with later drifted to the flank after a teammate was introduced. Seven
The defender Pushed forward with the ball at his feet, a familiar role in the past. Sometimes lacked urgency when carrying play and the approach was shelved by the interval. Six
Dan Burn A nuisance from dead balls, as always, perhaps is an alternative to Stones in the backline instead of alongside him. One wayward ball later in the match came close to an opener from Albania. 6
Nico O’Reilly One more confident performance from the youngster following his first cap versus Serbia. Saka failed to make the opportunity from a gorgeous touch behind their defense. His position is his to lose so soon. 7/10
Adam Wharton His first start with the national team. Slightly sloppy on the ball though his dangerous deliveries caused problems. A handy game manager available to the boss to call upon against teams who drop deep. Shown a yellow for a poorly timed challenge. 6
Declan Rice Deliveries on corner kicks and free kicks created chances. Had license to move on the left yet found himself in an offside position when the ball arrived in shooting positions. Awarded a deserved rest after an hour. 6/10
The star midfielder Functioned in a high role down the right and contributed with the hard yards. Displayed moments of class but mishit a shot wide. Withdrawn in the closing stages by Rogers, a fellow player, after receiving a caution. Seven
Jarrod Bowen Was presented with England’s best chance of the first half, his effort well saved from Thomas Strakosha. As a teammate holding position, he had to offer an outlet down the right side but his crosses from the touchline varied in quality. Replaced late in the match. 6
Harry Kane The difference-maker netting seventy-seventh and seventy-eighth goals in an England shirt. The opener a classic poacher’s finish while the second a superb header following a clever run away from the opposition. At 32, he continues to improve and the side are strong contenders next summer when he's in the team. 8
Eberechi Eze Had difficulty to make an impact out wide. Was presented with a presentable chance after being played in by Bellingham however Strakosha kept it out. His replacement produced a bigger influence after coming on. 5/10
Bench Players
- Foden (for a teammate on 63 minutes) Appeared sharp connecting well with the striker in more familiar role, Six
- Saka (for Eze 63) Spurned chances although his set-piece provided the first goal, Six
- Marcus Rashford (replacing the attacker 75) Energetic when brought on and provided the second goal with superb cross to the back post, 7/10
- Elliot Anderson (for the midfielder in the 75th minute) Appears comfortable so soon, 6/10
- Rogers (replacing the star 84) Insufficient minutes to affect things, 6