Squad Evaluations: The Three Lions Win Sealed by Kane's Double in International Qualifier
In a dominant display, England clinched one more win against Albania, featuring multiple squad members turning in notable displays throughout the game.
First-choice XI
Dean Henderson Had little to do required before the break before tested from Arbër Hoxha’s curling effort. One well-timed sliding intervention on Qazim Laci highlighted sharp anticipation. Six out of ten
The debutant Challenged against the opposition's primary attacker in their forward. Played in a central role initially then shifted to the flank after Saka entered the fray. Seven
John Stones Advanced into midfield on the ball, as he has done in the past. On occasion was too casual in possession with the approach discontinued after the break. 6/10
Dan Burn A constant threat at set pieces, per usual, perhaps is an alternative for his teammate at the back rather than alongside him. One wayward ball after the break nearly resulted in a goal from the visitors. Six
Nico O’Reilly One more assured performance from the 20-year-old after his initial appearance against another side. A teammate was unable to take full advantage of a gorgeous flick over the Albania defence. The left-back spot is his to lose so soon. 7/10
Adam Wharton A debut start in an England shirt. Somewhat loose when playing out but his whipped corners caused problems. An effective pace-controller available to the manager to utilize against teams who drop deep. Cautioned after a reckless tackle. 6/10
Declan Rice Deliveries from corners and free kicks were dangerous. Had room to move down the left flank yet found himself offside as the pass came in front of goal. Granted a well-earned rest around the 60-minute point. 6/10
The star midfielder Functioned in an advanced role on the right and also contributed with the hard yards. Showed moments of class and scuffed a shot high. Substituted towards the end for Rogers, his competition, after being booked. Seven
The winger Was presented with England’s top opening of the first half, his strike excellently kept out by the opposing goalkeeper. With Quansah staying deep, he had to offer an outlet down the right side although his balls from the touchline were inconsistent. Substituted for the final quarter-hour. 6
Harry Kane The match-winner scoring seventy-seventh and seventy-eighth finishes in an England shirt. His first a typical poacher’s finish and his next a classy finish with his head following a clever run off his defender. Aged 32, his form is unwavering and the side have every chance in the upcoming tournament when he's in the team. 8
Eberechi Eze Struggled to get into the game on the left flank. Was presented with a presentable chance when set up by Bellingham but the keeper kept it out. His replacement produced a bigger an impact in his place. 5/10
Substitutes
- Foden (replacing Rice on 63 minutes) Was bright connecting seamlessly with the striker in more familiar role, 6/10
- Saka (for Eze 63) Spurned chances although his set-piece led to the first goal, 6/10
- Marcus Rashford (replacing Bowen 75) Active upon introduction assisting the captain's brace with superb cross to the back post, 7
- Elliot Anderson (on for Wharton in the 75th minute) Looks established at this level, 6/10
- Rogers (replacing Bellingham with minutes remaining) Insufficient minutes to influence the game, 6