Player Evaluations: The Three Lions Victory Secured by Harry Kane's Double in World Cup Qualifying Match
Throughout a impressive showing, the English national team secured a further win against Albania, with several squad members producing standout displays on the pitch.
Starting Eleven
Dean Henderson Not a save required in the first half but then tested from Arbër Hoxha’s bent shot. His sliding challenge on an Albanian attacker highlighted sharp game intelligence. Six out of ten
The debutant Challenged by Albania’s main danger through Hoxha. Started through the middle early on but moved out wide after a teammate entered the fray. 7/10
John Stones Advanced into midfield with the ball at his feet, something he's known for previously. At times seemed hesitant on the ball and the tactic was shelved at half-time. 6
Dan Burn A nuisance at set pieces, as always, but may be another option for his teammate at the back instead of paired with him. One wayward pass in the second half almost led to an opener from Albania. 6/10
Nico O’Reilly Another assured showing from the rising star following his first cap versus another side. A teammate was unable to take the opportunity from an exquisite flick over their defense. His position is his to lose at this stage. Seven
The newcomer His first start with the national team. Slightly loose in possession however his whipped set-pieces posed a danger. A handy game manager available to the coach to utilize against teams who drop deep. Booked for a poorly timed foul. 6/10
The midfielder Deliveries on corner kicks and free-kicks created chances. Had room to move on the left yet found himself offside as the pass came in front of goal. Granted a deserved break around the 60-minute point. Six
Jude Bellingham Operated in a forward position down the right while also did plenty of defensive duties. Demonstrated moments of class but scuffed an attempt over. Substituted late on for Rogers, his competition, following a yellow card. Seven
The winger Had England’s clearest opportunity before halftime, his shot excellently kept out by Thomas Strakosha. With a teammate holding position, he was forced to offer an outlet out wide although his balls from wide areas were inconsistent. Taken off late in the match. 6
Harry Kane The decisive figure with his 77th and 78th strikes at international level. The first a classic close-range tap-in and his next a superb headed goal following a clever run away from the opposition. Now 32, his form is unwavering and England have every chance in future competitions when he's in the team. Eight
The attacker Found it tough to get into the game on the left flank. Had a good opening after being played in by Bellingham yet Strakosha kept it out. His replacement produced a bigger an impact after coming on. Five
Substitutes
- Phil Foden (for a teammate on 63 minutes) Appeared sharp and combined seamlessly with Kane in a natural spot, 6/10
- Bukayo Saka (for Eze at the 63-minute mark) Missed opportunities although his set-piece provided the breakthrough, Six
- Marcus Rashford (replacing the attacker with 15 left) Lively when brought on and set up Kane’s second with superb cross to the back post, 7/10
- Anderson (on for Wharton in the 75th minute) Seems settled already, Six
- Rogers (for Bellingham 84) Too brief a spell to make an impact, Six